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How the Affluent Manage Home Equity to Safely and Conservatively Build Wealth
Money, Ric tells the story of two brothers,
More than half the nation’s banks failed
If you had enough money to pay off your mortgage right now, would you? Many people would. In fact, the ‘American Dream’ is to own your own home, and to own it outright, with no mortgage. If the American Dream is so wonderful, how can we explain the fact that thousands of financially successful people, who have more than enough money to pay off their mortgage, refuse to do so. The answer? Most of what we believe about mortgages which we The answer?and Mosthome of whatequity, we believe about mortgages and home equity, learned from our parents and grandparents, which we learned from our parents is wrong. They taught us to make a and big down grandparents, They mortgage, taught us and payment, get isa wrong. fixed rate to make a big down payment, get a fixed make extra principle payments in order to pay rate mortgage, and make extra principle off your loan as early as you can. Mortgages, payments in order to pay off your loan as they arecan. a necessary evilthey at best. earlysaid, as you Mortgages, said, are a necessary evil at best.
The problem with this rationale is it has become outdated. Therationale rules ofismoney The problem with this it has have become outdated. Thegrandparents, rules of moneywe will changed. Unlike our have changed. our job grandparents, no longer have Unlike the same for 30 years. In we will no longer have the same job for many cases people will switch careers five 30 years. In many cases people will switch orcareers six times. Also, unlike our grandparents, five or six times. Also, unlike our we can no longer on ourdepend company’s grandparents, we depend can no longer pension plan for a secure retirement. on our company’s pension plan for a A recent secure survey retirement. A recent Gallup showed that Gallup 75% ofsurvey workers showed that 75% of workers want to retire want to retire before the age of 60, yet only before thethey age can. of 60, yet only 25% think 25% think they can.
Unlike our grandparents, we will no longer Unlike our grandparents, we will no live in the same home for 30 years. Statistics longer live in the same home for 30 show that the average homeowner lives in years. Statistics show that the average their home for only sevenhome years. homeowner lives in their forAnd onlyunlike our grandparents, we will no longer keep the seven years. And unlike our grandparents, we will no longerforkeep the same mortgage same mortgage 30 years. According to the for 30 years. According to the Federal Federal National Mortgage Association, or National Mortgage Association, or Fannie Fannie Mae, the average American mortgage Mae, the average American mortgage lasts 4.2 years. People are refinancing their lasts 4.2 years. People are refinancing homes everyevery 4.2 4.2 years their homes yearstotoimprove improve their interest rate, restructure their debt, remodel their interest rate, restructure their debt, remodel their home, or tomoney pull out their home, or to pull out formoney investing, for investing, or other Given expenses. education or education other expenses. these Given these statistics, it’s difficult to statistics, it’s difficult to understand why understand why so many Americans so many Americans continue to pay a high continue to pay a high interest rate interest rate premium for a 30-year fixed rate premium mortgage, when they are likely to only use
the first 4.2 years of the mortgage. We can financial planning goal, and in fact how you only conclude theyrate aremortgage, operatingwhen on outdated ultimate handle issuesplanning of homegoal, ownership financial and in may well for a 30-year fixed how you handle issues of home they are likelyfrom to only use thegenerations first 4.2 knowledge previous when factdetermine whether you achieve financial may well determine whether years the mortgage. can than only the 30 year ownership thereofwere few optionsWe other success.” you achieve financial success.” conclude they are operating on outdated fixed mortgage. Wealthy Americans, those knowledge from previous generations with the ability to pay off their mortgage but when there were few options other than Why people fear mortgages, refuse to do understand how to make Why people fear mortgages, the 30 year fixedso, mortgage. Wealthy and whyyou youshouldn’t shouldn’t and why their mortgage for them. Americans, those work with the ability to pay off their mortgage but refuse to do so, In order to discover how our parents order to discover how our parents and They go against manytheir of mortgage the beliefs of andIngrandparents understand how to make got the idea that a grandparents got the idea that a mortgage traditional work for them.thinking. They put very little mortgage was a necessary evil at best, a necessary evil at best, we must go back money down, they keep their mortgage we was must go back in time to the Great in time toInthe Depression. They go against many the beliefs of choose Depression. theGreat 1920’s a commonIn the 1920’s balance as high as ofpossible, they traditional thinking. They put very little a common clause in loan gave banks adjustable rate interest-only mortgages, clause in loan agreements gaveagreements money down, they keep their mortgage right tothe demand repaymentfull of repayment right full to demand and most importantly they integrate their thebanks balance as high as possible, they choose theof loan at any time. Since this was loan at any time. Since like this was like mortgagerate intointerest-only their overallmortgages, financial plan to askingthe adjustable for the moon and the stars, no one asking for the moon and the stars, no one continually increasethey theirintegrate wealth. This and most importantly their is how worried about it. When the stock market worried about it. When the stock market mortgage intoricher. their overall financial plan the rich get crashed on October 29, 1929 millions of crashed October 29,money, 1929much millions of to continually increase their wealth. This is investors loston huge sums of Thethe game is the same, but while most of itinvestors how richboard get richer. lost huge sums of money, on margin. Back then, you could buy much Americans are playing checkers, the affluent $10ofof itstock for a $1. Since value on margin. Back the then, youofcould buy The board is theThe same, but while stocks dropped, wanted aregame playing chess. good news is the the$10 of stock for afew $1.investors Since the value of the most Americans are playing checkers, the to sell, so they had to go to the bank strategies used by the wealthy work for the stocks dropped, few investors wanted to sell, affluent are playing chess. The good news and take out cash to cover their margin rest of America as well. Any home-owner can so they had to go to the bank and take out is the strategies used by the wealthy work call. It didn’t take long for the banks to implement the strategies of the wealthy to tocash coverand their margin It didn’t take for the rest of America as well. Any homeruncash out of start callingcall. loans increase their net worth. owner can implement the strategies of the theAmericans banks to who run were out of cash and duelong fromfor good wealthy to increase their net worth. faithfully making their mortgage start calling loans due from payments good Americans RicEdelman, Edelman,one oneofofthe thetop topfinancial financial planners every month. However, there wasn’t any Ric who were faithfully making their mortgage in the country and aand New York York Times Best demand to buy these homes, so prices planners in the country a New payments every month. However, there Times Best Selling author, summarizes in The continued to drop. To cover the margin Selling author, summarizes in this book wasn’t any demand to buy these homes, so this book The Truth About Truth About Money, “TooMoney, often,“Too people buy calls, brokers were forced to sell stocks prices continued to drop. To cover the margin often, people buy homes in a vacuum, homes in a vacuum, without considering how and once again there wasn’t a market calls, brokers were forced to sell stocks and without considering how that purchase is that purchase is going to affect other aspects for stocks so the prices kept dropping. going to affect other aspects of their lives. once again thereDepression wasn’t a market for stocks Ultimately, the Great saw the of their lives. This can beand a big mistake, and stock market fall more than 75% from its This can be a big mistake, therefore so the prices kept dropping. Ultimately, the therefore you mustthat recognize owning a 1929 highs. you must recognize owning athat home Great Depression saw the stock market fall holds important implications for the homevery holds very important implications for more than 75% from its 1929 highs. rest your plan. Although a theofrest of financial your financial plan. Although a fine goal, owning a home is not the
fine goal, owning a home is not the ultimate
More than half the nation’s banks failed and millions of homeowners, unable to raise the
cashand they needed to payoff their loans,tolost millions of homeowners, unable theirraise homes. Out of thisneeded the American Mantra the cash they to payoff loans, lost own their homes. Out of this wastheir born: Always your home outright. the American Mantra was born: Always Never carry a mortgage. own your home outright. Never carry a
Themortgage. reasoning behind America’s new mantra The reasoning behind ifAmerica’s new fell was really quite simple: the economy mantra was really quite simple: if the to pieces, at least you still had your home economy fell to pieces, at least you still andhad the your bankhome couldn’t take it away from you. and the bank couldn’t take Maybe you couldn’t put food oncouldn’t the table it away from you. Maybe you putor payfood youronbills, but your was but secure. the table or payhome your bills, your secure. Since Great Since thehome Greatwas Depression lawsthe have been Depression have been introduced introduced thatlaws make it illegal for banks to illegal for banks to call your call that yourmake loanitdue. The bank can no longer loan due. The bank can no longer call you call up youand upsay, and“We’re say, “We’re running a little running a little short on short on cash and need you to pay your cash and need you to pay off youroff loan in loanthe in next the next thirtythirty days.”days.” Additionally, the Fed is now quick to
Additionally, the into Fed the is now quick to infuse infuse money system if there is money into the system if there is a run a run on the banks, as we saw in 1987 on Y2K. the in FDIC wasand created the and banks, asAlso, we saw 1987 Y2K. to Also, insure banks. Still, it’s no wonder the fear the FDIC was created to insure banks. Still, of losing their home became instilled in it’s no wonder the fear of losing their home the hearts and minds of the American became instilled in the hearts and minds people, and they quickly grew to fear of the American and and they60’s quickly their mortgage.people, In the 1950’s grewfamilies to fearwould theirthrow mortgage. In the 1950’s mortgage burning to celebrate paying off their andparties 60’s families would throw mortgage home.parties And so, this fearoff of their burning tobecause celebrateofpaying their mortgage, for nearly 75 years most home. And so, because of this fear of their people have overlooked the opportunities mortgage, for nearly 75 years most people their mortgage provides to build financial havesecurity overlooked the opportunities their mortgage provides to build financial security.
Why people hate their mortgage andtheir whymortgage you Why people hate andshouldn’t why you shouldn’t Many people hate their mortgage because
Many people hate the their because they know over lifemortgage of a 30 year loan, theythey know lifeinofinterest a 30 than year the loan, will over spendthe more cost them in the place.than To save theyhouse will spend more in first interest the money it becomes very tempting to make house cost them in the first place. To save a bigger down payment, or make extra money it becomes very tempting to make principal payments. Unfortunately, saving a bigger down payment, or make extra money is not the same as making money. principal Or, put payments. another way,Unfortunately, paying off debtsaving is money is not the as same as makingassets. money.ByOr, not the same accumulating mortgage put tackling anotherthe way, paying pay-off off debtfirst, is and not the the same as accumulating assets. By tackling the mortgage pay-off first, and the savings goal second, many fail to consider the important role a mortgage plays in our savings effort.
Common Home Equity Misconceptions Many Americans believe the following statements to be true, but in reality they are myths, or misconceptions:
Your home equity is a prudent investment.
FALSE Extra principal payments on your mortgage saves you money.
FALSE Mortgage interest should be eliminated as soon as possible.
FALSE Substantial equity in your home enhances your net worth.
FALSE Home Equity has a rate of return.
FALSE savings goal many failistoaconsider Every dollar wesecond, give the bank dollar we the important role apaying mortgage plays in our did not invest. While off the mortgage savings effort. Every dollar we give the saves us interest, it denies us the opportunity bank is a dollar we did not invest. While to earn interest with that money. paying off the mortgage saves us interest, it denies us the opportunity to earn interest with that money.
A tale of two brothers
Ric Edelman has educated his clients for A tale of two brothers years on the benefits of integrating their mortgage intohas their overallhisfinancial Ric Edelman educated clients plan. Inforhisyears book, The New Rules of Money, Ric on the benefits of integrating their overall financial tells themortgage story of into two their brothers, each of whom plan. In his book, The New Rules of secures a mortgage to buy a $200,000 home. Each brother earns $70,000 a year and has $40,000 in savings. The first brother, Brother A, believes in the old way of paying
off a mortgage, which aismortgage as soon astopossible. each of whom secures Brother A bites the bulletEach and brother secures a fifteenbuy a $200,000 home. earnsmortgage $70,000 aatyear and APR has $40,000 year 6.38% and shells out in savings. The first brother, Brother A, down all $40,000 of his savings as a 20% believes inleaving the old him way of paying off a payment, zero dollars to invest. mortgage, which is as soon as possible. This leaves him with a monthly payment of Brother A bites the bullet and secures a $1,383. Since he hasat 6.38% a combined fifteen-year mortgage APR andfederal and income taxofrate 32%, as he is left shellsstate out all $40,000 his of savings a 20%an down payment, leaving zero cost with average monthly nethim after-tax dollars to invest. with a of $1,227. Also, This in anleaves efforthim to eliminate his monthly payment of $1,383. Since he has mortgage sooner, Brother A sends an extra a combined federal and state income tax $100 to his lender every month. Brother rate of 32%, he is left with an average B, in contrast, subscribes the new way of monthly net after-tax cost ofto$1,227. Also, mortgage planning, choosing instead to in an effort to eliminate his mortgage carry a big, long-term He secures sooner, Brother A sendsmortgage. an extra $100 to his lender every month. a 30-year, interest-only loan at 7.42% APR. He outlays a small 5% down payment of Brother B, in contrast, subscribes $10,000 and invests the remaining $30,000 to the new way of mortgage planning, in a safe, moneymaking account. His choosing instead to carry a side big, long-term monthly is $1,175, 100% of which mortgage.payment He secures a 30-year, interestis taxloan deductible 15 ayears, and only at 7.42% over APR.the He first outlays small over 5% down payment $10,000 and him 64% the life of theof loan, leaving invests the remaining $30,000 in a safe, a monthly net after-tax cost of $799. Every moneymaking side account. His monthly month he adds $100 to his investments (the payment is $1,175, 100% of which is tax same $100 Brother A sent to his lender), plus deductible over the first 15 years, and 64% the he’s from his lower over$428 the life ofsaved the loan, leaving him mortgage a payment. His investment account earns an monthly net after-tax cost of $799. Every month $100 to his investments 8% rateheofadds return. (the same $100 Brother A sent to his
Which brother madehe’s thesaved rightfrom decision? lender), plus the $428 his lower mortgage payment. His investment The answer can be found by looking into account earns anjust 8% rate return. the future. After five of years Brother A has received $14,216 in tax savings, however he Which brother made the right decision? made zero dollars in savings and investments. The answer can be found by looking into Brother B,After on the hand, has received the future. justother five years $22,557 savings$14,216 and hisin savings and Brother A in hastax received tax savings, however he made zero dollars in investment account has grown to $83,513. savings and investments. Brother B, on thelose Now, what if both brothers suddenly other hand, has received $22,557 in tax their jobs? The story here turns rather bleak savings and his savings and investment Brother A. Without any money in savings, for account has grown to $83,513. Now, what he hasbrothers no way tosuddenly get through the crisis. if both lose their jobs? Even though he has $74,320 of equity in his The story here turns rather bleak for Brotherhe A. can’t Without money in savings, home, getany a loan because he doesn’t he has no way to get through the crisis. have a job. With no job and no savings, he Even though can’t make his monthly payments and has no choice but to sell his home in order to avoid foreclosure. Unfortunately, at this point it’s a fire sale so he must sell at a discount, and
3
A Tale of Two Brothers Adapted from the book, The New Rules of Money
Our story begins with two brothers, each earning $70,000 a year. They each have $40,000 in savings and both are buying $200,0000 homes.
Brother “A” believes in “The Old Way” – paying off the mortgage as soon as possible
Brother “B” believes in “The New Way” –carrying a big, long mortgage
15-year mortgage at 6.38% APR
30-year mortgage at 7.42% APR
$40,000 Big Down Payment
$10,000 Big Down Payment
$0 left to invest
$30,000 left to invest
$1,383 Monthly Payment
$1,175 Monthly Payment
(56% is tax deductible first year/33% average)
(100% is tax deductible first 15 yeas/64% average)
$1,227 Monthly Net After-Tax Cost
$799 Monthly Net After-Tax Cost
Sends $100 monthly to lender in effort to eliminate mortgage sooner
Adds $100 monthly to investments, plus $428 saved from lower mortgage payment where account earns 8% rate of return
Results after 5 Years Received $14,216 in tax savings
Received $22,557 in tax savings
has $0 in savings and investments
has $83,513 in savings and investments
What if both brothers suddenly lost their jobs? Has no savings to get him through crisis
Has $83,513, in savings to tide him over
Can’t get a loan – even though he has $74,320 more in equity than his brother – because he has no job
Doesn’t need a loan
Must sell his home or face foreclosure because he can’t make payments
Can easily make his mortgage payments even if he’s unemployed for years
At this point – it’s a fire sale – he must sell at a discount and pay real estate commissions (6-7 %)
has no reason to panic since he’s still in control – remember... cash is KING!
then pay real estate commissions. Brother B, while not particularly happy at the prospects of searching for a new job, is not worried becauseofheequity has $83,513 in savings to he has $74,320 in his home, tide him get over.a loan He doesn’t need a loan and can he can’t because he doesn’t easily his monthly payments, even if he have amake job. With no job and no savings, can’t make his payments and isheunemployed formonthly years. He has no reason to has no choice but to sell his home in panic, as he is still in control. Remember… order to avoid foreclosure. Unfortunately, at this is point it’s a fire sale so he must sell Cash King! at a discount, and then pay real estate commissions. Now, let’s say neither brother lost his
job. We’ll check in on them after fifteen years have Brother B, whilethey not particularly passed since purchasedhappy their athomes the prospects of searching for a new job, and evaluate the results of their financing is not worried because he has $83,513 in strategies. Brother A He hasdoesn’t now need received savings to tide him over. $25,080 taxeasily savings, $30,421 in a loan andincan makehehishas monthly payments, even if he savings and investments (once his home is unemployed years.saving He hasthe noequivalent was paid off hefor started reason to panic, as he is stilleach in control. of his mortgage payment month), and Remember… owns his home outright. Not too bad, right? Cash is King!
Now let’s check on his Brother. Brother B Now, let’s say neither brother lost his job. has received $67,670 in tax savings and has We’ll check in on them after fifteen years $282,019 in since savings investments. have passed theyand purchased their If he chooses to,evaluate he can the payresults off the remaining homes and of their financing strategies. A has now mortgage balance ofBrother $190,000 and still have received left $25,080 in savings, tax savings, has $92,019 over in freehe and clear. $30,421 in savings and investments (once
Results After 15 Years Received $25,080 in tax savings
Received $67,670 in tax savings
Has $30,421 in savings and investments
Has $282,019 in savings and investments
Owns home outright
Remaining mortgage balance is $190,000 – and he has enough savings to pay it off and still have $92,019 left over, free and clear
Results After 30 Years Received $25,080 in tax savings
Received $107,826 in tax savings
Has $613,858 in savings and investments
Has $1,115,425 in savings and investments
Owns home outright
Owns home outright – so starts fresh and enjoys the same benefits once again
his homelet’s was assume paid off he started saving Finally, that rather than pay the equivalent of his mortgage payment off his mortgage at fifteen years, Brother B each month), and owns his home outright. decides to ride out the whole thirty years of the Not too bad, right? loan’s life. While Brother A has still received only inon taxhissavings, savings Now $25,080 let’s check Brother.his Brother B and investments have grown to $613,858, has received $67,670 in tax savings and and hasstill $282,019 investments. he owns inhissavings homeand outright. Brother B, If he chooses to, he has can received pay off the on the other hand, a whopping remaining mortgage balancehas of $190,000 $107,826 in tax savings, accumulated and still have $92,019 left over in savings, an incredible $1,115,425 in savings and free and clear. investments, and also owns his home outright. Heassume can start Finally, let’s thatover ratherfresh than and pay enjoy off his mortgage fifteenagain. years,Unfortunately, Brother the same benefitsat once B decides to ride out the whole thirtythe same the majority of Americans follow yearsas of Brother the loan’s A they path A,life. as While it’s theBrother only path has still received only $25,080 in tax know. Once the path of Brother B is revealed savings, his savings and investments to them, a paradigm shifting epiphany often have grown to $613,858, and he still occurs as they Brother B’sB,path enables owns his homerealize outright. Brother on the homeowners to received pay their ahomes off sooner (if other hand, has whopping they choose to), while significantly increasing
Are you still doing this? “Here is an extra $100 principal payment Mr. Banker. Don’t pay me any interest on it. If I need it back, I’ll pay you fees, borrow it back on your terms, and prove to you that I qualify.”
Money you give the bank is money you’ll never see again unless you refinance or sell.
Many Americans believe the best way to
Certified Financial Planners) contained
$107,826 in tax savings, has accumulated their net worth and maintaining the added year loan and a 30-year loan, as well as the tax 4-5%, the chances are pretty good that you the first academic study undertaken on pay off a home early is to pay extra principal an incredible $1,115,425 in savings and into a safe side investment account can the benefits of liquidity and safety the entire way. savings earn 5% on your money. Interest rates question of 15-year versus 30-year on your mortgage. Similarly, many finance investments, and also owns his home earning a conservative rate of return, you will are relative. In the 1980’s, moneythe was30-year costingloan mortgages. They concluded professors think a 15-year loan saves you outright. He can start over fresh and enjoy have enough to pay your home off in 13½ 15%, but individuals could still earn 15% on is better. Based on the same logic, wouldn’t money by reducing the interest you pay. the same benefits once again.home Unfortunately, Successfully managing years (or in 15 yearsAndrew with $25,000 to spare!). their money. Due to the tax deductibility of However, Doug points out in his the majority of Americans follow the same equity increase liquidity, an interest-only loan be better than an book, one Missed Fortune,Fortune that thistalks thinking is in Missed about path asto Brother A, as it’s the only path they Chapter mortgage interest and compounding returns, If mortgage money If you do the made math, you find if youof youamortizing know. Once of Brother safety, rate the of path return, and B is revealed theflawed. $25,000 mistake by millions can borrowloan? at a higher rate and investcost it atyou 4-5%, the chances are pretty good that you set asidewho thechoose monthly payment difference to them, a paradigm shifting epiphany often Americans the fifteen-year loan. a lower rate and still make a significant profit. tax deductions occurs as they realize Brother B’s path homeowners to pay their homes In enables 2003, Doug Andrew, a top financial planneroff sooner theythe choose while significantly from Utah,(if was first to), to clearly articulate increasing their net worth and maintaining the strategy the wealthy have been using the added benefits of liquidity and safety the forentire decades in his book, Missed Fortune. The way.
book is based on the concepts of successfully managing home equity to increase liquidity, Successfully managing home safety, rate of return, and tax deductions. equity toreaders increase Doug educates to viewliquidity, their mortgage ratethrough of return, and andsafety, home equity a different lens, the same used by the affluent. He shows taxlens deductions how relatively minor changes in home equity In 2003, Doug Andrew, a top financial perception and positioning can produce planner from Utah, was the first to clearly monumental long-term effects in financial articulate the strategy the wealthy have security. been using for decades in his book, Missed
Fortune. The book is based on the concepts Many Americans believe the best way to of successfully managing home equity to payincrease off a home early is to pay extra principal liquidity, safety, rate of return, and ontax your mortgage. Similarly, many finance deductions. Doug educates readers professors thinkmortgage a 15-year to view their andloan homesaves equityyou money by a reducing the the interest through different lens, sameyou lens pay. used However, Doug Andrew pointshow outrelatively in his book, by the affluent. He shows minorFortune, changesthat in home equity perception Missed this thinking is flawed. If and positioning can produce monumental you do the math, you find if you set aside the long-term effectsdifference in financialbetween security. a 15monthly payment
between a 15-year loan and a 30-year loan,
as well as the tax savings a safe side Cram Investment Groupintoteaches an investmentseminar account for earning conservative educational the apublic based rate of return, you will have enough to largely on the Missed Fortune concepts.pay In home we off inbreak 13½ years in 15 years theyour seminar, down(orthe four key with $25,000 to spare!). Chapter one in benefits of integrating your mortgage into Missed Fortune talks about the $25,000 your financial plan (increased liquidity, safety, mistake made by millions of Americans who ratechoose of return, tax deductions) the and fifteen-year loan. in order to look at each one in more detail
can earn 5% on your money. Interest rates are relative. In the 1980’s, money was costing 15%, but individuals could still earn 15% on their money. Due to the tax deductibility of mortgage interest and compounding returns, can cash borrow at a higher and invest By you having available ftor rate emergencies at a lower rate and still make a significant andit investment opportunities, most homeprofit.
Large equity in your home can be a big disadvantage
owners are better off than if their equity is tied up in their residence. Large, idle equity, also Large equity your home called ‘having all yourineggs in one basket,’ Cram Investment Group teaches an Oureducational goal is to help clients conserve their home can be a big disadvantage can be risky if the homeowner suddenly seminar for the public based equity, notonconsume it. Fortune We are concepts. one of theIn needs cash. While employed and in excellent largely the Missed By having cash available ftor emergencies fewthe financial planning firms who health, borrowing on a home is easy, but most seminar, we break down theencourage four key and investment opportunities, most homeclients to secure debt in order become debt benefits of integrating yourtomortgage into people, especially owners are betterretirees, off than if unexpectedly their equity financial plan (increased liquidity, safety, need freeyour sooner. when theyresidence. are sick, unemployed is cash tied up in their Large, idle or rate of return, and tax deductions) in order to haveequity, insufficient income. Obtaining home also called ‘having all your aeggs in In look Aprilat 1998, Thein more Journal of Financial each one detail basket,’ be risky if the loanone under thesecan circumstances canhomeowner be either Planning (published by the Institute of suddenly cash. While employed impossible orneeds very expensive. Our goalFinancial is to help clients conserve their Certified Planners) contained and in excellent health, borrowing on a not consume it. We are one thehome first equity, academic study undertaken on Howhome manyisofeasy, us feel go toespecially the bank butwhen most we people, of the few financial planning firms who the question of 15-year versus 30-year we almost retirees,need unexpectedly need cash when to prove we don’t need thethey encourage clients to secure in order are sick, unemployed or have insufficient mortgages. They concluded thedebt 30-year loanto money before they’ll loan it to us? The bank become debt free sooner. income. Obtaining a home loan under these is better. Based on the same logic, wouldn’t wants to know we have the ability to repay can be how eithera conversation impossible or an Ininterest-only loan be better than an the circumstances loan. You can imagine April 1998, The Journal of Financial very expensive. amortizing If mortgage Planningloan? (published by the money Institutecost of you might go with your banker: “I brought up
“It’s better to have access to the equity or value of your home and not need it, than to need it and not be able to get at it.”
your loan application up to the board this There are actually three primary reasons:
How many of us feel when we go to the morning and I explained to them you’re going bank we almost need to prove we don’t through some hard financial times, you’re need the money before they’ll loan it to us? unemployed, your credit is not so good and The bank wants to know we have the ability maybe lendcan youimagine some cash to repaythey the could loan. You how to a get through thesemight rough times. Their response conversation go with your banker: “I was... ‘Fatupchance!’ brought your loan application up to the board this morning and I explained to them What many is that even you’re goingpeople throughdon’t somerealize hard financial if they’ve consistently been making double times, you’re unemployed, your credit is not so good and maybe they could lend you mortgage payments for five years in a row, the some cashhas to get rough times. bank still no through leniency.these If suddenly they Their response was... ‘Fat chance!’ experience a financial setback, the bank will
not care. They can go to the bank and plead,
What many people don’t realize is that even “I never thought in a million years this would if they’ve consistently been making double happen to me, but it did. I’ve been paying my mortgage payments for five years in a row, mortgage in has advance for years, how about if the bank still no leniency. If suddenly I justexperience coast on my mortgage payments for a they a financial setback, the bank fewnot months?” Theycan get go thetosame answer every will care. They the bank and plead, never thought in ajust million time... “I‘Fat chance!’ Banks don’tyears workthis that would happen to me, but it did. I’ve been way. Regardless of how much you’ve paid your paying my down mortgage in advance for payments years, mortgage or how many extra how about if I just coast on my mortgage you’ve made, next month’s payment is still payments for a few months?” They get the due in its entirety no matter what. same answer every time... ‘Fat chance!’ Banks just don’t work that way. Regardless of how much you’ve paid your mortgage down or how many extra payments you’ve made, next month’s payment is still due in its entirety no matter what.
mortgage payment, or have an additional financial times, would your rather have $25,000 of equity trapped in your home? $25,000 of cash to help you make your Almost every person who has ever lost their mortgage payment, or have an additional home to foreclosure would have been better $25,000 of equity trapped in your home? off if they hadperson their who equity from Almost every hasseparated ever lost their 1. Liquidity home in a liquid,would safe, conservative side home to foreclosure have been better These three elements are also commonly their 2. Safety fund that could be used to make mortgage off if they had their equity separated from used asofthe test of a prudent investment. 3. Rate return their home in a liquid, conservative side during their safe, time of need. When evaluating a potential investment, payments fund that could be used to make mortgage These three elements experienced investors are will also ask commonly the following The importance of liquidity became all too payments during their time of need. used as the test of a prudent investment. three questions: clear when the stock market crashed in cash position. Why in the world would you want to have the1.equity removed from your Liquidity home? There are 2. actually Safetythree primary reasons: 3. Rate of return
When evaluating a potential investment, experienced1. investors will ask the following How liquid is it? three questions: (Can I get my money back when I want it?)
2. How 1. How liquid issafe it? is it?
(Can I get my back when I want it?) (Is itmoney guaranteed or insured?)
3. Whatsafe rate ofisreturn 2. How it? can I expect? (Is it guaranteed or insured?)
Home equity fails all three tests of a prudent investment. Let’s examine each can of these core 3. What rate of return elements in more detail to better understand I expect? why home equity fails the tests of a prudent Home equity and, fails allmore three tests of a prudent investment, importantly, why investment. Let’s examinebyeach of these core home-owners benefit separating the elements in more detail to better understand equity from their home. why home equity fails the tests of a prudent investment, and, more importantly, why home-owners benefit by separating the equity from their home.
The importance became too October of 1987.of Ifliquidity someone had alladvised clear when the stock market crashed in you to sell your stocks and convert to cash, October of 1987. If someone had advised they would have been a hero. Or, if you had you to sell your stocks and convert to cash, enough liquidity you could have weathered they would have been a hero. Or, if you had the storm. Those with other liquid assets were enough liquidity you could have weathered able to remain invested. Theyliquid wereassets rewarded the storm. Those with other aswere theable market rebounded to remain invested.and Theyrecovered were fully withinas90the days. However, those and without rewarded market rebounded recovered fully withinto90 However, liquidity were forced selldays. while the market those without liquidity were forcedsignificant to sell was down, causing them to accept while the market was down, causing them losses. In Missed Fortune, Doug Andrew tells to accept significant losses. In Missed the story of a young couple who learned what Fortune, Doug Andrew tells the story of a he calls “The $150,000 Lesson on Liquidity”. young couple who learned what he calls In“The 1978 this couple built a beautifulIn home $150,000 Lesson on Liquidity”. that be featured Better home Homesthat and 1978would this couple built a in beautiful Gardens. couple’s home appreciated would be The featured in Better Homes and The by couple’s inGardens. value, and, 1982,home it wasappreciated appraised for in value, by 1982,They it was appraised for just underand, $300,000. had accumulated just under $300,000. They had accumulated a significant amount of equity, not because a significant amount of equity, not because they had been making extra payments on they had been making extra payments on the property, but because market conditions the property, but because market conditions improved improvedover overthat thatfour-year four-yearperiod. period.
Why separate equity from your home?
Separating equity to increase liquidity
In the book, Missed Fortune, Doug Andrew suggests people strongly Why from equity considerseparate separatingequity as much your as theyhome? possibly can from their house, and place it overMissed in a cash position. in the In the book, Fortune, DougWhy Andrew world would youstrongly want to have the equity suggests people consider separating as much equity as they possibly removed from your home?
What is the biggest secret Separating equity toin real estate? Your mortgageliquidity is a loan against your income, increase not a loan against the value of your house. What is the biggest secret in real estate? Your Without an income, in many cases you cannot mortgage is a loan against your income, not a get a loan. If you suddenly experienced loan against the value of your house. Without This couple thought they had the world by difficult financial your get rather an income, in manytimes, caseswould you cannot a This couple thought they had the world tail. They had a home valued at $300,000 have of cashexperienced to help you make loan. $25,000 If you suddenly difficultyour the by the tail. They had a home valued at
can from their house, and place it over in a
during which wasbalance forced to who got stucktime withthe the lender deficiency of $30,000 on mortgage their creditand report? original pay the first alsoThe accrued an owners, of$30,000 course! of interest and penalties. additional By the time the home finally sold, less the They hadhad thethe misconception that thethe equity in This couple not only had a foreclosure They misconception that $30,000 in accrued indebtedness, guess equity their home had of a rate of return appear on their credit report for seven years, theirinhome had a rate return when, when, in fact,init who got stuck with the deficiency balance of fact,was it was a number a sheet of paper. the report also showed a deficiency balance justjust a number on aonsheet of paper. $30,000 on theironcredit report? owing $30,000 a home they The had original lost owners, of course! nearly one year Then, a series of unexpected events reduced Then, a series of unexpected events reduced earlier. In a time of financial setback they lost their income to almost nothing for nine months. their income to almost nothing for nine This couple not only had a foreclosure appear of their most valuable assets due to a They couldn’t borrow money to keep their months. They couldn’t borrow money to keep onone their credit for seven years, the lack of liquidity.report If they had separated their mortgage payments current because without their mortgage payments current because report also showed deficiency owing $150,000 in homeaequity and balance repositioned an income they did not have the ability to without an income they did not have the ability $30,000 on a side homeaccount, they had lostwould nearlyhave one it into a safe they repay. Within six months they had sold two to repay. Within six months they had sold two year easily beenInable to make their mortgage other properties to bring their mortgage out of earlier. a time of financial setback they other properties to bring theirthat mortgage payments and prevented this series delinquency. They soon realized in orderout to lost one of their most valuable assetsofdue to of delinquency. They soon realized that in protect their $150,000 of equity they would have a events. lack of liquidity. If they had separated their At this point in the story, Doug admits the to sell their home. As Murphy’s Lawofwould order to protect their $150,000 equityhave they $150,000 in home equity and repositioned couple was really he and his wife, it, the would have to sell their home. As Murphy’s it young into a safe side account, they would have Sharee. Despite objections from his editor, previously strong real market turned Law would have it,estate the previously strongsoft. real easily able make their mortgage Dougbeen insisted the to story remain in the book estate market turned soft. payments and prevented this series of events. with first and second mortgages owingowing only $300,000 with first and second mortgages only$150,000. $150,000.They Theyhad had“made” “made”$150,000 $150,000ininfour four short years. short years.
Although they reduced their asking price several times – from $295,000 down their to $195,000 they Although they reduced asking –price could not find a buyer. Sadly, they gave up the several times – from $295,000 down to home in foreclosure to the mortgage lender. $195,000 – they could not find a buyer. Sadly, Sometimes sad stories only get sadder. The two they gave up the home in foreclosure to the mortgages on the property were in the amounts mortgageand lender. Sometimes sadThe stories of $125,000 $25,000, respectively. only mortgage get sadder. The two mortgages on the second holder outbid the first one property were in the amounts of $125,000 at the ensuing auction, feeling that, much like theand original owners, itrespectively. was in a goodThe position. $25,000, second Knowing that the house had been appraised mortgage holder outbid the first one at for the $300,000, the obligation owing was like only the ensuingand auction, feeling that, much $150,000, thought ititcould turna around and originalit owners, was in good position. sell the property to cover the investment. It took Knowing that the house had been appraised nine long months to sell, during which time the for $300,000, and the obligation owing lender was forced to pay the first mortgage and only $150,000, it thought turn alsowas accrued an additional $30,000 itofcould interest around and sell the property to cover the and penalties. By the time the home finally sold, It in took nine long months toguess sell, lessinvestment. the $30,000 accrued indebtedness,
because he wanted his readers to know he understands first hand the importance of Atpositioning this pointassets in theinstory, Doug admits the financial instruments couple liquidity was really and ofhisan wife, young that maintain in theheevent Sharee. Despite objections from his access editor, emergency. If Doug and Sharee had Doug insisted storythey remain inhave the book to their home’sthe equity, could used it to weather the his readers to know he because he wanted financial storm they the could get back of understands firstuntilhand importance on their feet. Dougin learned frominstruments his own positioning assets financial experience the importance of maintaining that maintain liquidity in the event of an flexibility in order to ride out market lows emergency. If Doug and Sharee had access and take advantage of market highs. And, tomost theirimportantly, home’s equity, they could useda he learned neverhave to allow it significant to weatheramount the financial storm until theyin of equity to accumulate could get back on their feet. Doug learned his property. Home is not the same cash in theof from hisequity own experience the as importance bank; only cash in the bank is thetosame maintaining flexibility in order ride as out cash in the bank. Being house rich and cash market lows and take advantage of market poor is a dangerous position to be in. It is
highs. And, mostaccess importantly, he learned better to have to the equity or value of yourtohome not need amount it, than toofneed it and never allowand a significant equity not be able to get at it. Keeping home equity to accumulate in his property. safe is really a matter of positioning yourself to act instead of not reactthe to same marketasconditions over Home equity is cash in the which youcash have bank; only inno thecontrol. bank is the same as
cash in the bank. Being house rich and cash Separating equity poor is a dangerous positiontoto be in. It is better to have access to or value of increase safetytheofequity principal your home and not need it, than to need it and The Seattle Times, in an article published notinbeMarch able 2004, to get reported, at it. Keeping home equity “Remember that safehousing is reallyprices a matter of positioning can and do level off.yourself to They act instead of react to market conditions sometimes decline – witness Southern over which you have no control. California just a little more than a decade
ago, when prices took a 20 percent to 30 percent corrective jolt downward.” Real estate equity is no safer than any other investment whose value is determined by an external market over which we personally have no Thecontrol. SeattleIn Times, fact, dueintoan thearticle hiddenpublished “risks of life,” estate equity is not nearly as safe as many in real March 2004, reported, “Remember that other conservative housing prices can andinvestments do level off.and assets. A home that is either mortgaged to the hilt They sometimes decline – witness Southern or owned totally free and clear provides the greatest safety for the homeowner. California just a little more than a decade ago,
Separating equity to increase safety of principal
when prices took a 20 percent to 30 percent corrective jolt downward.” Real estate equity is no safer than any other investment whose value is determined by an external market “Home equity over which we personally have is nonot control. In fact,the due same to the hidden “risks of in life,”the real as cash estate bank. equity is not nearly as safeinasthe many Only cash other conservative investments and assets. bank is the same as A home that is either mortgaged to the hilt cashfree inand theclearbank.” or owned totally provides the greatest safety for the homeowner.
the Enron Corporation collapsed a few years ago, and thousands lost their jobs and homes, again in Houston, Texas. What would happen in the Seattle area if Microsoft or Boeing had major lay-offs? Money you give the bank is money you’ll never see again unless you Americans typically believe home equity is refinance or sell. When the people in Houston a very safe investment. In fact, according to pleaded, “Mr. Banker, I’ve been making extra a recent study, 67% of Americans have more mortgage payments for years. I’m well ahead of their net worth in home equity than in all of schedule. Will let you let me coast for a other investments combined. However, if 100 while?” The bank replied, “Fat Chance!” financial planners looked at a client portfolio that was 67% weighted in a single investment, 99 out of 100 of them would immediately To reduce the risk of foreclosure recommend the client diversify to reduce during unforeseen set-backs, their risk and increase safety of principal. keep your mortgage balance as Holding large amounts of home equity puts the homeowner at unnecessary risk. This risk high as possible could be greatly reduced by diversifying their Is your home really safe? Unfortunately, home equity into other investments. many home buyers have the misconception An example of the necessity of keeping your that paying down their mortgage quickly home’s equity safely separated from your is the best method of reducing the risk property can be can be found in Houston, of foreclosure on their homes. However, Texas. When oil prices fell to all time lows in reality, the exact opposite is true. As in the early 1980’s the city of Houston was homeowners pay down their mortgage, hit hard. Thousands of workers were laid off they are unknowingly transferring the risk and ultimately forced to sell their homes. from the bank to themselves. When the With a glut of homes on the market, housing mortgage balance is high, the bank carries prices plummeted. Unfortunately, there the most risk. When the mortgage balance were far too many sellers and far too few is low, the homeowner bears the risk. With a buyers. Homeowners were unable to sell and low mortgage balance the bank is in a great unable to make their mortgage payments. position, as they stand to make a nice profit As a result, 16,000 homes were foreclosed. if the homeowner defaults. In addition to Did these 16,000 families suddenly become assuming unnecessary risk, many people who bad people? No, they just couldn’t make their scrape up every bit of extra money they can to mortgage payments. Just prior to this series apply against principal often find themselves of events many of these people were making with no liquidity. When tough times come, extra principal payments. Unfortunately, they they find themselves scrambling to make could not coast on those extra payments, and their mortgage payments.
“Home equity is not the same as cash in the bank. Only cash in the bank is the same as cash in the bank.”
with so many houses on the market for sale, Assume you’re a mortgage banker looking some people literally had to walk away from at your portfolio, and you have 100 loans their home. that are delinquent. All of the loans are The equity these people had worked so hard for homes valued at $300,000. Some of to build up was lost completely. They learned the loan balances are $150,000 and some the hard way that home equity is fragile, and are $250,000. Suddenly, there is a glut in certainly not as safe as they once thought. the market and the homes are now worth Could this happen today? Just look at when $200,000. Which homes do you as the banker foreclose on FIRST? The ones owing the least
amount of money, of course. After all, as a banker you’d make money taking back those homes, however you’d lose money trying to sell a home for $200,000 that still owed $250,000 on it. Banks have been known to call delinquent homeowners with high mortgage balances and offer assistance, “We understand you are going through some tough times, is there anything we can do to help you? We really want you to be able to keep your home.” The last thing they want to do is take back a home that they will lose money reselling. It’s interesting to note, during the Great Depression, the Hilton chain of hotels was deeply affected by the stock market crash and couldn’t make their loan payments. What saved them from financial ruin? They were so leveraged, in other words they owed so much more on their property than it was worth, that the banks couldn’t afford to bother wasting their time foreclosing on it. The Hiltons understood the value of keeping high mortgage balances thereby keeping the risk on the banks. The Houston homeowners would have been better off if they had removed a large portion of their equity and put it in a safe and liquid side fund, accessible in a time of need. Ask yourself, if you owned a $400,000 home during an earthquake in California (and you didn’t have earthquake insurance), would you rather have your equity trapped in the house or in a liquid, safe side fund? If it were trapped in the home, your equity would be lost along with the house.
our home appreciates, or our mortgage balance is going down, thatTherefore, the equity home has a the home’s appreciation. rateequity of return. That’s not true. Home equity simply sits idle in the home. It does rate of Home return.values Assume you hasnot NOearn rateany of return. fluctuate have a home worth $100,000 which due to market conditions, not due toyouthe own freebalance. and clear. If thethe home appreciates mortgage Since equity in the 5%, you own an asset worth $105,000 at home has no relation to the home’s value, the end of the year. it is in no way responsible for the home’s appreciation. Therefore, home equity simply Now, assume you had separated the sits$100,000 idle in theofhome. It does not earn any rate home equity and placed it in of areturn. Assume you haveaccount a home worth safe, conservative side earning $100,000 you own would free and 8%. Yourwhich side account beclear. worthIf the home appreciates ownyear. an asset $108,000 at the5%, endyou of the You worth still own theathome, which appreciated 5% and $105,000 the end of the year. is worth $105,000. By separating the equity
Separating equity to increase rate of return What do you think the rate of return on home equity was in Seattle for the last 3 years? What about Portland? Careful, this is a trick question. The truth is, it doesn’t matter where you live or how fast the homes are appreciating, the return on home equity is always the same, ZERO. We have a misconception that because
Now, assume a new you asset had which separated the you created was also $100,000 of home and Therefore, placed it in a able to earn a rateequity of return. safe, sidemore account 8%. youconservative earned $8,000 thanearning you would have money werebeleft to sit$108,000 idle Your sideif the account would worth in the home. To be fair, you do have at the end of the year. You still owna the mortgage you didn’t have home, whichpayment appreciated 5% and is before. worth However, since interest rates are relative, $105,000. By separating the equity you if we are assuming a rate of return of 8%, created a new asset which was also able to we can also assume a strategic interestearn a rate of return. Therefore, you earned only mortgage would be available at 5%. $8,000 more mortgage than youinterest would ishave the Also, since 100%if tax
money were left to sit idle in the home. To be fair, you do have a mortgage deductible, the net cost of thepayment money isyou didn’t have before. However, since interest only 3.6%. This produces a 4.4% positive spread betweenif the costassuming of moneyaand rates are relative, we are rate of the earnings on that money. return of 8%, we can also assume a strategic interest-only mortgage would be available at The story gets much more compelling 5%. Also, since mortgage interest is 100% tax over time, although the mortgage debt deductible, the net cost of the money is only remains constant, through compound 3.6%. This produces a 4.4% positive spread interest, the side account continues to between the cost of money and the earnings grow at a faster pace each year. The onearnings that money. on $100,000 in year 1 are $8,000. Then in year 2, the 8% earnings
The story gets much more compelling over on $108,000 are $8,640. In year 3, the time, although the mortgage debt remains earnings on $116,640 at 8% are $9,331. constant, compound interest, Since thethrough mortgage debt remains the the side account continues to grow at aoffaster same, the spread between the cost the pace each year. Theand earnings on $100,000 mortgage money the inearnings year 1 are Then inequity year 2, the 8% on$8,000. the separated continues widen further in the In year 3, earnings on to $108,000 are $8,640. homeowner’s favor every year. If we$9,331. allow the earnings on $116,640 at 8% are home equity to remain idle in the home, Since the mortgage debt remains the same, give up the opportunity to put it to thewespread between the cost of the mortgage work and allow it to grow and compound. money and the earnings on the separated equity continues to widen further in the Homeowners would actually be better off homeowner’s favor everybackyards year. If we burying money in their thanallow
home equity to remain idle in the home, we give updown the opportunity to put since it to work and paying their mortgages, money allow it to grow and compound. buried in the backyard is liquid (assuming you can find it), and its safe (assuming Homeowners would actually neither be better no one else finds it). However, is off burying amoney their backyards than paying earning rate ofinreturn. It’s actually losing down their mortgages, since money buried value due to inflation. Few people today in the backyard liquid (assuming you can find bury money inisthe back yard or under their mattresses, because they have confidence it), and its safe (assuming no one else finds it). in the banking system. They also However, neither is earning a rateunderstand of return. idle money loses value while invested It’s actually losing value due to inflation. Few money grows and compounds. As Albert people today bury money in the back yard or Einstein said, “The most powerful force in under their mattresses, because they have the universe is compound interest.” After all, confidence in the banking system. They also homes were built to house families, not store understand idle money losesto value while cash. Investments were made store cash.
invested money grows and compounds. As Albert from Einstein said, “The mostsuppose powerfulyou force Taken a different angle, in theoffered universe compound interest.” After were an is investment that could never go in value, might down. How not all, up homes werebutbuilt to go house families, much of it would you want? Hopefully store cash. Investments were made tonone. store Yet, cash.this is home equity. It has no rate of
return, so it cannot go up in value, but it could go down in value if the real estate marketyou Taken from a different angle, suppose declines or the homeowner experiences an were offered an investment that could never uninsured loss (e.g. an earthquake), disability, go up in value, but might go down. How much or a foreclosure
“Homes are designed to house families,not store cash.” “Investments are designed to store cash.” 5%.we It’sgive whatupmakes millionaires, millionaires! had $100,000 of equity in of it would you want? Hopefully none. Yet, this TheLet’s home, the “opportunity” to earn a The power of leverage costsayofyou not borrowing Learn to be your own banker. By using the your home that could be separated. Current
is home equity. It hasano ratecan of return, so it 5 percent return on the money. Let’s be clear, buying home be a great (employment cost vs.isopportunity cost) principles that banks and credit unions use, mortgage interest 5%, so the cost of that cannot go up in value,thebutwealthy it could gothe down investment. However, buy you can amass a fortune. A bank’s greatest money would be $5,000 per year (100% tax By separating the equity we give it new life. in value if as thelittle realofestate market declines home with their own money as or When homeowners separate equity to assets are its liabilities. You can substantially deductible). Rather than bury the $100,000 We give ourselves the opportunity to put it to possible, leaving the majority ofan their cash in the homeowner experiences uninsured reposition it in a liquid, safe,going side to account, net worthon byit.optimizing in the backyard, we are put it toa workenhance and earnyour something Assumingthe a other investments where it’s liquid, safe, and loss (e.g. an earthquake), disability, or a mortgage payment is created. The mortgage assets that you already have. By being your work, or “employ” it. If I were an employer, 28 percent tax bracket, the net employment earning a rate of return. One of the biggest foreclosure own banker you can make an extra $1 Million why would I be willing hire an assistant payment is considered the to Employment Cost. cost for is not 5%, but 3.6%, or $3,600 per year misconceptions homeowners have is that their retirement. for $35,000 per year? The expectation is I What many people don’t understand is when home is the best investment they ever made. after taxes (mortgage interest is 100% tax am going to be able to grow my business If you purchased a home in 1990 for $250,000 we leave equity trapped in our home, we incur deductible). It’s not too difficult to find tax and earn a profit on it. As a business owner, to create an extra and sold it in June of 2003 for $600,000, that the same cost, but we call it a lost Opportunity free How or tax deferred investments earning I believe that by investing in an assistant I Let’s be clear, buying a home can be a Cost. represents a gain of 140%. During the same dollars fortaxretirement will earn a return that’s greater than the costmoremillion than 3.6%. Using the benefits of a period, the Dow Jones grew fromthe 2590 to 9188, great investment. However, wealthy of employing that assistant. If we choose to you can create your own arbitrage that’s parked in your home doing mortgage, By repositioning $200,000 into an equity a gainthe of 255%. realityashere is that buy homeThewith little of financing their The money leave the $100,000 of equity in our home, by management borrowing at one rate and earning account with a financial advisor could be put to work earning you your was the investment decision own home money as best possible, leaving the nothing we incur almost the same cost. The only you can achieve gain ofhigher $1 million investment returns ata net a slightly rate. that you ever made. When you purchased the something. majority of their cash in other investments difference is, instead of referring to that cost over thirty years. Assume you separate the It’s what the banks and credit unions do all $250,000 house in 1990, you only put $50,000 employment cost, it is referred to as an where it’s liquid, safe, and earning a rate of Let’sassay $200,000 of home equity using a mortgage you had $100,000 of equity in down. The $50,000 cash investment produced a borrow our money at 2% and opportunity cost. By leaving the equity in thethe time.aThey return. One of the biggest misconceptions 5% interest rate. If the $200,000 profit of $350,000. That is a total return of 600%,your home that could be separated. Current thenwith loan it back to us at 5%. It’s what makes home, we give up the “opportunity” to earn a grows homeowners have is that home is mortgage at a conservative rate of 6.75% per far outpacing the measly 255%their earned by the interest is 5%, so the cost of that millionaires, millionaires! Learn to be your 5 percent return on the money. year, it will be worth $1,419,275 in 30 years. the best investment they ever made. If you stock market. money would be $5,000 per year (100% tax own banker. By using the principles that After deducting the $216,000 in interest purchased a home in 1990 for $250,000 deductible). Ratherthe thanequity bury the $100,000 By separating we give it newinlife. banks and credit use, youmortgage, can amassyou payments andunions the $200,000 and sold it inofJune 2003 for $600,000, the backyard, The cost notofborrowing we are going put it to work, or it toa fortune. We give ourselves the to opportunity to put A bank’s greatest assets are itsA still have $1,003,275 left in your account. that represents acost gainvs. of 140%. During cost) the “employ” work it. and on why it. Assuming If Iearn weresomething an employer, would I a liabilities. (employment opportunity net gain over one million enhance dollars. your Youofcan substantially same period, the Dow Jones grew from be willing 28 percent tax bracket, the net employment to hire an assistant for $35,000 per net worth by optimizing the assets that you When homeowners separate equity to reposition isexpectation not 5%, butis3.6%, or $3,600 per year 2590 to 9188, a gain of 255%. The reality year?cost The I am going to be able Thishave. example simplyyour shows timeyou already By being owna one banker it in a liquid, safe, side account, a mortgage after taxes (mortgage interest is 100% tax here is that financing your home was the to grow repositioning of equity. Imagine how the my business and earn a profit on it. As an extra $1 Million for retirement. payment is created. The mortgage payment is deductible). It’s not too difficult to find tax can make best investment decision that you ever a business numbers grow for individuals that harvest owner, I believe that by investing in considered the Employment Cost. What many free or tax deferred investments earning and reposition their home equity every 5 made. When you purchased the $250,000 an assistant I will earn a return that’s greater people don’t understand is when we leave more than 3.6%. Using the tax benefits years as their home continues to appreciate! house trapped in 1990,inyou putwe$50,000 down. equity ouronly home, incur the same thanofthe cost of employing that assistant. a mortgage, you can create your ownIf This is how the wealthy manage their home The $50,000 investment produced cost, but we callcash it a lost Opportunity Cost. a we choose to leave the $100,000 equity arbitrage by borrowing at oneofrate and in equity to continually increase their net worth. profit of $350,000. That is a total return of our home, earning returns at a slightly weinvestment incur almost the same cost. The Conversely, if the same $200,000 $200,000 into an were equityleft The money that’s parked in your255% homeearned 600%, far outpacing the measly rate.is, It’sinstead what the andtocredit only higher difference of banks referring that By repositioning to sit idle in the home for 30 years, it would doing could be put to work earning you account with a financial advisor by the nothing stock market. unions do all thecost, time.it They borrow ouran management cost as employment is referred to as not have earned a dime. something. money at 2% and then loan it back to us at you can achieve a net gain of $1 million
The power of leverage
How to create an extra million dollars for retirement
opportunity cost. By leaving the equity in the
from the NASD: “Brokers are not prohibited Betting theAssume ranch;yourisking 401 vacation condo to make the mortgage payments. client over thirty years. separatehome the investment recommendations. This would include from making such a recommendation per $200,000 home equity using a mortgage adequately explaining the inrisks such an equityofto buy securities Many successful people the of Northwest se, equity so longisas Serious the investment isWe reasonably Home Money. don’t with a 5% interest rate. If the $200,000 grows which and are buying significant, to the dream of retiring a second suitable for investment in general, it is investment, Recently the NASD issued an alert, “… gamble home equity. Liquidity and and safety at because a conservative rate of 6.75% per year, it investor.” The NASD simply wants to ensure home in Arizona or Hawaii. With one suitable for the specific customer. In order to we are concerned that investors are the key philosophies when separating million dollars or moreprudent saved inadvice. their willwho be must worthrely $1,419,275 in 30returns years.toAfter consumers are receiving determine suitability, a broker should on investment home equity. Rate of return is a distant IRA/401Ks, they decide to retire and buy consider the client’s investment objectives, deducting themortgage $216,000payments in interestcould payments make their end third benefit. Also, it is not necessary or the vacation home where they will spend financial status, tax status, and any other defaulting on their home loans if their andupthe $200,000 mortgage, you still have Tax deductions to their winters. What a surprise when they recommended to invest in highly volatile information a firm uses to make suitable investments they A are $1,003,275 leftdecline in yourand account. netunable gain ofto discover that to pay cash for a $350,000 investments. This You would can make client recommendations. include offset 401k withdrawals meet monthly mortgage payments.” The or aggressive over onetheir million dollars. condo they need to withdraw nearly adequately explaining the risks of such an NASD is absolutely correct in advising againstthousands of dollars by simply borrowing at $500,000 fromretirees their 401K/IRA. What if Most successful have the majority investment, which areinsignificant, to the if the client must relytime on 5% and investing at 5% safe conservative Thisseparating exampleequity simply shows a one instead they had purchased the condo The NASD simply wants ensure of their assets in their home equity and the returns from their investment make investments without ever togoing repositioning of equity. Imagine to how thethe fixedinvestor.” 15 years earlier, cost $175,000, by consumers are receiving prudent advice. mortgage payments. As theywhen start itwithdrawing funds numbers grow for individuals that harvest into securities. In general, individuals IRA/401Ks. using the equity in their home? equity is Serious Money. We don’t andHome reposition their home equity every 5 should not invest home equity for “current from their IRA/401Ks, they are hit with a gamble home equity. Liquidity and safety are annual tax bill. Moreover, the kids Tax deductions to offset unless the investment is fixed significant years as their home continues to appreciate! income” Today their net worth would be $175,000 the key philosophies when have moved thecondo’s mortgage is paid, and withdrawals guaranteed. Individuals interested in Thisseparating is how the wealthy manage home and 401k higher, dueout, to the appreciation, home equity. Rate oftheir return tax and deductible contributions to 401Ks have they would have the mortgage should have ask themselves, equity to continually increase their is a distant third benefit. Also, it isnet notworth. variable Mostinvestments successful retirees the majority stopped. When they could useoff-set the mortgage interest deduction to help their make inmytheir mortgage payment Conversely, therecommended same $200,000 were left necessaryif or to invest in to “How of will theirI assets home equity and if IRA/401K withdrawals. In addition to the interest deduction the most, they don’t have or aggressive I have reserve sit highly idle involatile the home for 30 years,investments. it would not my investments IRA/401Ks. Asdecline? they startDo withdrawing funds financial advantages, they would have it. As part of long term planning, someone You can make thousands of dollars by simply funds from IRA/401Ks, they are hit with a or their a secure income?” In April 2004, have earned a dime. enjoyed the lifestyle benefits of may owning is preparing for retirement want borrowing at 5% and investing at 5% in safe the significant tax bill. following annual question wasMoreover, posed tothethekids whotheir vacation condo 15 years sooner conservative fixed investments without ever NASD, to have a mortgage going into retirement have moved out, the mortgage is paid, and “Where can I find the exact language than they planned. Betting thesecurities. ranch;Inrisking going into general, individuals tax deductible contributions to 401Ks have to help offset the annual IRA/401k tax bill prohibiting a broker from recommending that shouldequity not invest for “current stopped. When they could use the mortgageand enhance their overall financial goals. home tohome buyequity securities I takeinterest a mortgage out on my house and invest income” unless the investment is fixed sam your deduction the most, they don’t haveFor Making many, the uncle mortgage interest deduction the money in of securities?” writtensomeone answer and guaranteed. Individuals interested in it. As part long termThe planning, Recently the NASD issued an alert, “…because best partner offsets taxes due on retirement withdrawals, the isNASD: “Brokers are not prohibited investments should ask preparing for retirement may want wevariable are concerned that investors whothemselves, must rely fromwho thetax netlaw effect free withdrawals Under you of cantax deduct up to one fromtomaking such a recommendation per giving will I make mytomortgage if have a mortgage going into retirement on “How investment returns make theirpayment mortgage from their retirement account. million dollars of mortgage interest subject my investments decline? Do I have reserve to help annual IRA/401k tax bill long offset as thethe investment is reasonably payments could end up defaulting on their se, so to income restrictions. You can also deduct funds or a secure income?” In April 2004, and enhance their overall financial goals. suitable for investment in general, and it is home loans if their investments decline an additional $100,000 from home equity the following question was posed to the For many, thespecific mortgage interest deduction suitable for the customer. In order 401 vacation condo andNASD, they “Where are unable meet loan interest. To take advantage of these can Itofind the their exact monthly language offsets taxessuitability, due on retirement to determine a brokerwithdrawals, should mortgage payments.” The NASD is absolutely deductions, make sure to secure a large prohibiting a broker from recommending that giving the net effect of tax free withdrawals Many successful people in the Northwest consider the client’s investment objectives, mortgage when you buy. Under tax law, correct inaadvising against separating if I take mortgage out on my houseequity and invest from their retirement account. dream of retiring buying only a second mortgage interest and is deductible for money securities?” The written thethe client mustinrely on the returns from answer their financial status, tax status, and any other information a firm uses to make suitable home in Arizona or Hawaii. With one million
dollars or more saved in their IRA/401Ks, they decide to retire and buy the vacation home where they will spend their winters. What a surprise when they discover that to pay cash for a $350,000 condo they need to withdraw nearly $500,000 from their 401K/IRA. What if instead they had purchased the condo 15 years earlier, when it cost $175,000, by using the equity in their home? Today their net worth would be $175,000 higher, due to the condo’s appreciation, and they would have the mortgage interest deduction to help off-set their IRA/401K withdrawals. In addition to the financial advantages, they would have enjoyed the lifestyle benefits of owning their vacation condo 15 years sooner than they planned. Making uncle sam your best partner Under tax law you can deduct up to one million dollars of mortgage interest subject to income restrictions. You can also deduct an additional $100,000 from home equity loan interest. To take advantage of these deductions, make sure to secure a large mortgage when you buy. Under tax law, mortgage interest is deductible only for $100,000 over acquisition indebtedness (the mortgage balance when home is purchased). Home improvements are the only exception. For example, if you sell your home for $400,000 and buy a new home for $400,000 with the cash from the sale, you will lose the tax break and liquidity. But worse, if you later decide to take out a home equity loan, only the first $100,000 will be tax deductible. Instead, secure a $360,000 mortgage (90%) when you buy the home and the entire amount is deductible.
vehicles. Tax favored safe investments are ideal. You should consult your financial planner for the best investment vehicles for your specific situation. Many financial planners prefer the following tax favored products for investing home equity: • Investment grade insurance contracts • Annuities • Real estate investment trusts • IRAS • 401ks • Tax-free bonds • 529 savings plan
Case study: home equity management There’s a recent case study of a couple living in a $550,000 home in Bellevue, WA. They owed $360,000 on a 30-year fixed mortgage at 5.875% with a monthly payment of $2,130. They had $190,000 built up in home equity. A very common “Brother A”-type traditional scenario. After understanding the liquidity, safety, rate of return, and tax benefits of properly managing their home equity, this couple decided to separate $155,800 of their equity to invest in a safe conservative side account. By using an interest-only ARM they were able to increase their mortgage balance to separate this chunk of equity while decreasing their monthly mortgage payment to $1,656, a monthly cash flow savings of $474 per month.
The couple conservatively invested the $155,800 lump sum and the $474 per month savings with their financial planner. If we assume a conservative 6% rate of Where to safely invest return, their investment account will grow to home equity $520,196 in 15 years. In the 15th year, they Home equity is serious money. We are will have enough cash in their investment separating it from the home to conserve it, account to pay off their mortgage completely not to consume it. Therefore it should not be if they want to (15 years earlier than with invested aggressively. Rather, home equity is their original 30 year mortgage!). However, best invested in safe, conservative investment armed with their new equity management
knowledge, they plan to keep the mortgage well into retirement so they can keep the tax deduction benefits and keep the money in the investment account where it’s more liquid, more safe, and will continue to grow and compound.
T H E C A P I TA L G R I L L E I N V I T E S Y O U
Case study: cash flow management It’s not necessary to have a large chunk of equity in your home to benefit from using your mortgage to create wealth. Many homeowners without a large equity balance have benefited by simply moving to a more strategic mortgage which allows them to pay less to their mortgage company each month, thereby enabling them to save or invest more each month. For example, a couple in Redmond, Washington followed traditional thinking when they bought their $400,000 home. They put 20% down and obtained a $320,000 30-year fixed rate mortgage at 6.00% with a payment of $1,919 per month. This is how the vast majority of Americans would purchase this home. However, once this couple understood the benefits of integrating their mortgage into their financial plan, they decided to make a change. They moved to a more strategic interest-only mortgage. They kept the same loan balance, but were able to reduce their monthly payments to $1,133 per month, a savings of $786 per month from their previous mortgage. The couple invests the $786 savings each month, and assuming a 6% rate of return, they will have enough money in their investment account to pay off their mortgage in 19 years (11 years sooner than their previous 30 year schedule!). Therefore, by simply redirecting a portion of their monthly mortgage payment, they were able to potentially shave 11 years off their mortgage. In addition, they also received the benefits of having their cash in a more liquid, more safe position throughout the process.
TO B E
WINED, DINED & DAZZLED. J o i n u s a t e i t h e r o f o u r T W O V A L L E Y L O C AT I O N S t o e n j o y S I G N AT U R E D RY- A G E D S T E A K S , F R E S H S E A F O O D a n d a n A W A R D - W I N N I N G W I N E L I S T.
Scottsdale Promenade 16489 N. Scottsdale Rd. Scottsdale , AZ 85254 480.348.1700 Call or visit thecapitalgrille.com to reserve your table today!
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WE WINE. WE DINE.
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PRIVATE ROOM PARTIES
Around Town
The concept of stepping out for “dinner and a show” may be the kind of lost art that the owners of BLK Live in Scottsdale are bringing back. Gone are the days of grabbing a burger on the way to see your favorite throwback band across town or hitting up the latest trendy modern fusion joint before your favorite band hits the stage across the street. BLK Live puts both the fine dining experience and live music together on one stage with great results! My husband and I had dinner before our show, and we were blown away by the food which certainly achieved Fine Dining Level status. (That’s saying a lot coming from this self-proclaimed foodie!!) Not only was the meal delectable but we were seated next to the band playing that evening. It was such a surreal experience. A night we won’t soon forget.
CORPORATE EVENTS
★ Join Us For Lunch ★ Best Patio Dining in Chandler ★ Come back at Night for Live Music or DJ ★ Great Happy Hour Destination
When you first walk into the comfortable rustic/chic space you can feel the understated elegance. Greeted by the hand-drawn artist murals on the wall, industrial lighting and beamed ceilings, the cushy upholstered booths invite you right in. It’s all centered around the main bar, which serves up a carefully crafted cocktail list. (Be sure to ask Conner to create one of his hand-crafted made-to-order drinks! We watched in awe as he played with fire on a cedar plank to add some smoke to our citrusy Bulleit Rye concoctions.) Originating out of Southern California where the owners have opened 6 other successful spots, BLK Live has been in North Scottsdale for 2 years, and they have a winning combo. The menu changes seasonally, so you may find something new upon each visit. We started with the elegantly stacked Tuna Tower. The combo of sweet mango house-made salsa, tangy seaweed salad and creamy avocado topped with loads of fresh ahi tuna complimented the unique crispy wonton chips perfectly. Such a refreshing summer-y start! Next, we couldn’t pass up the Pork Belly. It was melt-in-your-mouth perfection with the ideal complement of cherries, smoked peaches and a drizzle of bourbon glaze to pull it all together. Our server recommended the brussel sprouts, and we were glad he did.They were prepared in a fresh fashion: cut into smaller bites then roasted and crispy with a topper of applewood smoked bacon, a complimentary sprinkling of Grana Padano parmesan and a tangy sweet balsamic reduction to finish. (You may need to order 2 with a larger party, they were that good!!) The main course is where our excitement peaked!! Black Wagyu beef (the restaurant’s namesake in part) is the highest quality certified beef in the US and makes up the hand cut steaks and burgers on BLK Live’s contemporary menu. I like to consider myself a steak aficionado and have had selections from all of the fancy steakhouse spots in the Valley.Taking that into account, let me just say, that this was the BEST ribeye I’ve ever had! The meat itself was a cut above, but the preparation was unparalleled! The Snake River Farms American Wagyu ribeye is 14 ounces. It was grilled to perfection with a juicy warm pink center and nestled next to a small pool of creamy blue cheese sauce. I took unexpected delight in the included accompaniments-not an add on like those other places! Sides included: a bed of Kale salad balancing crispy and tender with a salty kick, several spears of smoky sautéed broccolini, and last but not least a lovely generous square of creamy and savory potatoes au gratin. I could detect gruyere cheese, my fav, and a subtle hint of a spice. I would also like to give a shout-out to the BLK Burger, my husband loved it – and in his words “You can taste the quality!” More of the famous Wagyu beef, expertly grilled and topped with crispy bacon and L & T on a challah bun with house-cut fries on the side. The Cobb salad was our last entrée. Not your mama’s Cobb, this take was modern and fresh! The house made Thousand Island dressing should be bottled- it’s that good. The usual suspects were mixed with shredded white cheddar, fresh corn and avocado, bacon and hard-boiled egg, and topped with a delectable sliced parmesan panko crusted chicken breast. BLK Live does not have a set desert menu as every evening they whip up a special treat. We tried a lemony and light cheesecake with berry compote; it was subtly sweet with a homemade graham crust.This southern girl always ends her meal with dessert and was super satisfied!! I’m hard pressed to find any negatives from our dinner. I guess I could say that the portions were large. (But having a little extra for the next day is a bonus in my book. Score!!) They even offered to place our to-go box in the fridge until after the show. At the conclusion of the meal we stepped out to the open air venue to enjoy the sounds of Fiji and his Island kissed blend of reggae. Featuring the top-notch sound of national acts on their regular calendar, a pool and tiki bars, VIP section, and chic cabanas; BLK Live’s experience takes your evening to another level. We were the still savoring dessert when the show started, and were delighted to realize that the music is patched directly into the restaurant’s own overhead speakers. I highly suggest treating yourself to an amazing pregame meal before catching your next live show; you can even stay and hang afterwards at BLK Live’s reverse happy hour!
1245 SOUTH PRICE RD. SUITE 1, CHANDLER, AZ 85286 480-696-1150 • WWW.MERIDIEMAZ.COM
Author - Lowr y Petty-Hughes
Be smart... Ask questions… Get answers!
CONSUMER REPORT– HOME LOANS
SHOPPING AROUND?
More than likely, this is one of the largest and most important financial transactions you will ever make. You might do this only four or five times in your entire life… but we do this every single day. It’s your home and your future. It’s our profession and our passion. We’re ready to work for your best interest.
HERE'S THE INSIDE SCOOP ON HOW TO DO IT RIGHT
First: make sure you are working with an experienced, professional loan officer. The largest financial transaction of your life is far too important to place into the hands of someone who is not capable of advising you properly and troubleshooting the issues that may arise along the way. But how can you tell?
Here are FOUR SIMPLE QUESTIONS YOUR LENDER ABSOLUTELY MUST BE ABLE TO ANSWER CORRECTLY. IF THEY DO NOT KNOW THE ANSWERS… RUN…DON’T WALK… RUN…TO A LENDER THAT DOES!
1 3 4 2
What are mortgage interest rates based on?(The only correct answer is Mortgage Backed Securities or Mortgage Bonds, NOT the 10-year Treasury Note. While the 10-year Treasury Note sometimes trends in the same direction as Mortgage Bonds, it is not unusual to see them move in completely opposite directions. DO NOT work with a lender who has their eyes on the wrong indicators.) What is the next Economic Report or event that could cause interest rate movement? (A professional lender will have this at their fingertips. For an up-to-date calendar of weekly economic reports and events that may cause rates to fluctuate, visit our Facebook page Finance of America Mortgage – Bryan
Johnson Lending Team – for daily updates. Want more? Let me know if you want to be added to my weekly distribution list.
When Janet Yellen {Chairmen of Federal Reserve} and the Fed “change rates”, what does this mean… and what impact does this have on mortgage interest rates?(The answer may surprise you. When the Fed makes a move, they can change a rate called the “Fed Funds Rate” or “Discount Rate”. These are both very shortterm rates that impact credit cards, Home Equity credit lines, auto loans and the like. On the day of the Fed move, Mortgage rates most often will actually move in the opposite direction as the Fed change. This is due to the dynamics within the financial
markets in response to inflation. For more information and explanation, just give us a call). Do you have access to live, real time, mortgage bond quotes?(If a lender cannot explain how Mortgage Bonds and interest rates are moving in real time and warn you in advance of a costly intra-day price change, you are talking with someone who is still reading yesterday’s newspaper, and probably not a professional with whom to entrust your home mortgage financing. Would you work with a stockbroker who is only able to grab yesterday’s paper to tell you how a stock traded yesterday, but had no idea what the movement looks like at the present time and what market conditions could cause changes in the near future? No way!)
SHOPPING... PART 2 Once you are satisfied that you are working with a top-quality professional mortgage advisor, here are the rules and secrets you must know to “shop” effectively. FIRST, IF IT SEEMS TO GOOD TO BE TRUE, IT PROBABLY IS. But you didn’t really need us to tell you that, did you? Mortgage money and interest rates all come from the same places, and if something sounds really unbelievable, better ask a few more questions and find
the hook. Is there a prepayment penalty? If the rate seems incredible, are there extra fees? What is the length of the lock-in? If fees are discounted, is it built into a higher interest rate? SECOND, YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR. If you are looking for the cheapest deal out there, understand that you are placing a hugely important process into the hands of the lowest bidder. Best case, expect very little advice,
experience and personal service. Worst case, expect that you may not close at all. All too often, you don’t know until it’s too late that cheapest isn’t BEST. But if you want the cheapest quote – head on out to the Internet, and we wish you good luck. Just remember that if you’ve heard any horror stories from family members, friends or coworkers about missed closing dates, or big surprise changes at the last minute on interest rate or costs… these are often due to working with discount or internet lenders who may have a serious lack of experience. Most importantly, remember that the cheapest rate on the wrong strategy can cost you thousands more in the long run. This is the largest financial transaction most people will make in their lifetime. That being said – we are not the cheapest. Of course our rates and costs are very competitive, but we have also invested in the systems and team we need to ensure the top quality experience that you deserve.
THIRD, MAKE CORRECT COMPARISONS. When looking at estimates, don’t simply look at the bottom line. You absolutely must compare lender fees to lender fees, as these are the only ones that the lender controls. And make sure lender fees are not “hidden” down amongst the title or state fees. A lender is responsible for quoting other fees involved with a mortgage loan, but since they are third party fees – they are often underquoted up front by a lender to make their bottom line appear lower, since they know that many consumers are not educated to NOT simply look at the bottom line! APR? Easily manipulated as well, and worthless as a tool of comparison. FOURTH, UNDERSTAND THAT INTEREST RATES AND CLOSING COSTS GO HAND IN HAND. This means that you can
have any interest rate that you want – but you may pay more in costs if the rate is lower than the norm. On the other hand, you can pay discounted fees, reduced fees, or even no fees at all – but understand that this comes at the expense of a higher interest rate. Either of these balances might be right for you, or perhaps somewhere in between. It all depends on what your financial goals are. A professional lender will be able to offer the best advice and options in terms of the balance between interest rate and closing costs that correctly fits your personal goals. FIFTH, UNDERSTAND THAT INTEREST RATES CAN CHANGE DAILY, EVEN HOURLY. This means that if you are comparing lender rates and fees – this is a moving target on an hourly basis. For example, if you have two lenders that you
just can’t decide between and want a quote from each – you must get this quote at the exact same time on the exact same day with the exact same terms or it will not be an accurate comparison. You also must know the length of the lock you are looking for, since longer rate locks typically have slightly higher rates.
Women of Influence
Closing Deals in Heels
Again, our advice to you is to be smart. Ask questions. Get answers. As you can imagine, we wouldn’t be encouraging you to shop around if we weren’t pretty confident that we feel that we can give you a great value and serve you the very best.
Shawn Hambright has over 18 years of extensive experience in the Title, Real Estate and Mortgage industries with an emphasis on customer care satisfaction, marketing, accounting and financial practices all while building life-long relationships. A native of Pennsylvania, Shawn started her career in 1986, with a degree in accounting, working for large corporations including Whirlpool Financial Corporation and American International Group (AIG) Insurance Company. After relocating to Phoenix in 2000, Shawn has held key marketing and management positions with firms such as; Keller Williams, Platinum Premier Reality, GMAC Mortgage, First American Title and most recently with First Arizona Title Agency where she serves as the Business Development Manager for Realtors throughout the valley. Shawn’s philanthropic efforts have included working with nonprofit animal welfare organizations and outreach programs such as the Susan G. Komen Walk for the Cure, Stand Up for Kids, The “BIG” Outdoors Project and The Phoenix Heart Walk where she was recognized for her outstanding fundraising efforts 4 years in a row. When not working with her clients, Shawn enjoys traveling internationally with her husband and loves spending time outdoors with her husband and 2 Golden Retrievers. Shawn’s passion is to be involved in her Real Estate client’s businesses, as a partner. If you are a Real Estate professional and are searching for a great Title Company with professional, experienced Escrow Officers and a Marketing Rep that will help you take your business in the right direction, please call Shawn. The difference you will see working with Shawn is that she cares about helping her clients succeed!
Shawn Hambright BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER
480.228.2395 Shawn@FirstAZTitle.com
www.firstaztitle.com
I am a Residential Realtor with West USA for over 20 years. I enjoy listing and selling homes in the Valley and especially enjoy finding a home for a first-time buyer! My other passion has been in Leadership in Women’s Council of Realtors and the Scottsdale Area Association of Realtors. Working my way up to being President in both organizations was extremely rewarding and I hope I made each a bit better as the experience sure made me a better person and a better Realtor. • • • •
2015 President of the Scottsdale Area Association of Realtors serving over 8,000 members 2008 President of the Scottsdale Area Association Women’s Council of Realtors Guiding force to bring the Lockbox for Seniors Program to Scottsdale and Fountain Hills which now serves over 2,000 residents for First Responders to assist in emergency Further education in the real estate business by obtaining the designations of CRS, GRI and e-Pro • Various Certificates of achievement over the years including President’s Circle, Multi-Million Dollar Producer and Top Producer My favorite hobby is golf and enjoying both friends and family and the way golf can unite us all for fun no matter how well or badly we play. My favorite part of the industry is being in a position to assist buyers/sellers in making this change in their life. Sometimes it is a bigger home as the family is growing or time to downsize to have more time for fun/travel. Other times it is being lucky enough to welcome someone new to this area and share our great communities.
Sue Barnes REALTOR, CRS, GRI, E-PRO
“Happiness is not having what you want but wanting what you have.”
480.688.0550
Katie is an Arizona native and started out her real estate career as a mortgage lender. This has developed her comprehensive understanding of the home buying process from start to finish. Her knowledge and passion for customer service is evident when working with her. She has helped many buyers and sellers accomplish their real estate goals and is always learning and studying new industry trends to keep up with the ever changing real estate world. Katie was the captain of her college cheerleading team and her enthusiastic, positive attitude is displayed with every client she meets. Katie holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Arizona and resides in North Phoenix.
sbarnes@westusa.com
www.SusanBarnes.com Jessie graduated Magna Cum Laude from ASU with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Aeronautical Engineering in 1995. When looking for her first place out of college, Jessie fell in love with looking for homes and decided to make it her career in 1997. West USA Realty has awarded her a Top Multimillion Dollar Producer award each year since 2009.
Katie Henderson
Jessie started managing properties in 2004 when the market became flooded with out-of-state investors. She currently manages over 150 units across Maricopa County. She prides herself on streaming the process between assisting Landlords in obtaining the highest net rental income and qualified tenants for their investments. Jessie is looked up to at West USA Realty as a leader in Property Management. She enjoys being a resource for other agents and assists in various programs and learning initiatives. She is also the 2018 Treasurer at the West Valley Chapter for National Association of Residential Property Managers (NARPM®).
602.214.7151
Jessee Collier REALTOR®, CRPM, E-PRO
“Sometimes you make choices in life, sometimes life chooses you.”
REALTOR®
KTsellsAZ@gmail.com
“You don’t become what you want, you become what you believe.” - Oprah Winfrey
602.359.1123
Jessie@BuySellManageHomes.com
www.buysellmanagehomes.com
www.myhomegroup.com
Lynda is an AZ Native and single mom of three awesome daughters. She received her B.A. in Broadcast Journalism and minor in Spanish, from NAU (Northern AZ University), and got her secondary teaching certificate from Ottawa University to teach high school Spanish. She also studied in Madrid, Spain and was on GCC’s Archery Team. She had her own segment on a TV show for the access cable channel in Phx, worked on TV and radio shows in Flagstaff, AZ and did behind the camera work for City of Glendale for many years. She helped her mom with a Spanish language Newspaper, “Ave Fenix”, which was in existence for 10yrs before her mom passed in a freak accident. She owned her own dance studio and was a professional Flamenco dancer (Spanish dancing). Her background in dance helped with all three of her daughters going into dance themselves. Two went competitive. Lynda got into the Real Estate business, 16 yrs ago. The only reason she left the high school teaching job she loved, was to help and protect Spanish speaking buyers, which she enjoyed very much. She was WCR PHX Board of Directors (Women’s Council of REALTORS) 2017 VP of Membership and is on Membership committee now, former and currently HAREP Board Director (Hispanic Assoc of Real Estate Professionals), former WeMAR Director (West Maricopa Assoc of REALTORS), Make-A-Wish AZ-Wish Granter and is West USA Realty’s Director of Career Services.
Alisa Glutz’s “client for life” approach is built on the foundation of providing personalized service tailor-made to meet her client’s mortgage needs. With over 13 years of experience (and growing up in the business), Alisa has developed a broad knowledge of the mortgage business and credit industry, which allows her to guide clients to the loan program that will best suit them and plan for the future. Alisa’s strong referral base knows that they can count on her to provide the highest level of personalized service and rely on her for her “Mortgage MacGyver” gift in finding ingenious solutions to complex loan scenarios. Born and raised in Arizona, Alisa is also a proud graduate of Arizona State University. After a successful beginning to her career working in Hollywood as an Executive for HBO and a Producer on ABC’s Politically Incorrect with Bill Maher, Alisa decided to return to her native Arizona where she became committed to helping her community realize the dream of home ownership and understand their true credit potential. When she’s not working, Alisa cherishes time with her two beautiful daughters, Angelina, 8 and Brooklyn, 6 in Scottsdale, Arizona. Alisa Glutz NMLS # 204235, AZ BK #0904024, Cherry Creek Mortgage Co., Inc NMLS #3001 Equal Housing Lender. Not all loan products available outside of Arizona.
Lynda Toraya DIRECTOR OF CAREER SERVICES/REALTOR®
602.942.4200 lynda@westusa.com lyndatoraya@gmail.com
“Life is too short not to do, what you want to do, NOW!”
website
Alisa Glutz
LICENSED MORTGAGE PROFESSIONAL - NMLS#204235
480.206.6516 aglutz@ccmclending.com
“Don’t just do what you are able to do; figure out what you were made to do, then do a lot of that”. - Bob Goff
www.glutzgroup.com
Laura Jewett is a Native Arizonan and has been a professional REALTOR since January 2001 serving the greater Phoenix area. With a passion for all things real estate, she offers a true concierge approach to real estate for her clients, with experience in design, rehab, fix and flip, construction, investment, rental, vacation rental and many other aspects of real estate. She shares this love of real estate with her best friend and husband of 18+ years, Greg, who is an owner with EZ Homes, Inc, the largest wholesaler of foreclosed properties in the Valley. They have two wonderful sons, Gavin and Brayden, who enjoy Cub Scouts, parkour, Minecraft and just being boys! Laura’s other interests include health and wellness (she is a certified Holistic Wellness Coach), family time and spending time outdoors. Laura attended the University of Arizona and graduated Magna Cum Laude with Honors with double majors in Marketing and Entrepreneurship. She has always excelled academically and continues that thirst for knowledge in her real estate career having attained many credentials and specialized knowledge in areas including land sales, distressed properties and staging. Additionally, she earned the Graduate REALTOR Institute (GRI) designation, At Home With Diversity (AHWD) certification and was a past member of the Master of Real Estate (MRE) Society, and continues ongoing training in relevant areas of real estate. A top producer at Tru Realty, she is dedicated to providing superior customer service to her clients and has been honored and humbled by previous clients’ testimonials of her service to them, which she invites you to read on her website www. LauraJewett.TruRealty.com.
Laura L. Jewett GRI, REALTOR®
480.628.2563 lljewett@gmail.com
“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.” - Mark Twain
www.LauraJewett.TruRealty.com
A devoted mother and dedicated real estate professional. Atasha, the ultimate “Valley Girl” who is originally from San Fernando Valley, California made the Valley of the Sun her home 13 years ago. An entrepreneur at heart because her spirit doesn’t operate in any other way. Her 20 years of experience in the legal, finance and real estate industries make her a trusted resource and a strong advocate for her clients. Her passion and purpose for her profession ensures a smooth transaction for her clients and exceeds their expectations. She takes great pride in what she does and finding her client the perfect home is her forte. She considers it a reward to connect with clients and holds herself to the highest degree of integrity, and ethics. Her dedication and quality of care are a rare treat.
Atasha Tallie REALTOR®
602.321.8775 atasha@trurealty.com
“Create a life that feels good on the inside. Not one that just looks good on the outside.” - Author Unknown
www.trurealty.com My passion for real estate started a decade ago when I bought my first home at the age of 20. Having been on the buying and selling end several times since then myself, I know the importance of working with a reliable, knowledgeable, and personable agent. My real estate experience and background as a business owner help me serve my clients with the best service out there. I’m committed to the end result being my client’s happiness which I deliver through being a resource, advocate, and guide, helping them navigate one of the biggest decisions of their life. I love being in real estate in Arizona because I personally chose to move here for its beauty and kind people. Now I get to help others do the same! I believe in order to be truly happy in life, you have to first love where you live- your home, neighborhood, and state because often the most magical and memorable moments in life take place at home. In my free time I enjoy running and fitness, reading a good book, and spending time with my adorable little girl and husband.
Kaelyn Costa
REALTOR®
602.316.3303 KaelynC@LongRealty.com
“Bloom where you are planted.”
www.KaelynC.LongRealty.com
THE HEAD SAYS YES. THE HEART SAYS DEFINITELY, YES.
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8 Habits of Millionaires By Holly C. Brauer, Financial Advisor and Wealth Manager
Imagine you look back on your life a year from now, and it is the best year of your life! What does it look like? What is your career? How much money did you make? How much did you save? What is your relationship with your family and loved ones? What are the things you are most passionate about that you had the freedom and time to do? All of these questions will help you get to your true why? Why is this important? Because if you want to become a millionaire, you must think like a millionaire. Have you heard the adage “You become what you think about?” Therefore, in order to think like a millionaire, you must study millionaires. From many years of research, daily habits can dictate how successful or unsuccessful you become in life. The good news is that all habits can be changed, and you can start implementing them today!
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Millionaire Mindset
Millionaires have a mindset they will become successful and wealthy. They envision it every day. Albert Einstein said, “Imagination is more important than knowledge.” If you could have anything in this world, would you go after it? So, what is stopping you now? Many people have a fear to fail. When Thomas Edison was asked how it felt to fail 1,000 times before inventing the light bulb, he replied, “I didn’t fail 1,000 times, the light bulb was an invention with 1,000 steps.” It’s all about how you perceive things, and mindset is everything! There are many millionaires who went broke several times, and even bankrupt, but learned the greatest lessons and never gave up until they succeeded. Start now by getting in the right mindset, and you will be unstoppable! Photo Credit: RB Branded (www.RBbranded.com)
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They wake up early and set goals
Many millionaires will have accomplished more by 9am, than the average person does in a day. They wake up early, and have crystal clear goals. More importantly, they pursue their own goals rather than living someone else’s dream. This gives them more passion, determination, and energy creating long-term happiness and success. Your goals act as a roadmap. Could you imagine showing up at the airport, and just hopping on any flight hoping to get to the right place? It would be difficult to plan a trip, without a destination in mind. Goals also create more opportunity and less obstacles. You focus on the positive, and stop noticing the negative. Start today by writing out your goals and dig deep until you get to your true why. Then start tomorrow
by waking up three hours before you begin your workday. This strategy will help deal with disruptions, which can subconsciously make us feel like we have no control over our life. Get up early and tackle the top three things you want to accomplish that day!
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7
They have successful friends
We often hear you are as successful as the average five people you hang around. It’s the law of attraction. If you’re constantly hanging around negative people, then it will shift your mindset and can stop you from reaching your full potential of success. Remember, great minds discuss ideas, average minds discuss events, and small minds discuss people. If you’re the smartest person in the room, then you’re in the wrong room. Look for mentors and other successful people to surround yourself with, and re-evaluate your circle of influence. Even the negative news media can have an influence on you, and so you must be aware of your thoughts. Set a goal to go 30 days without listening to the news, and instead listen to a positive audiobook, podcast, or TedTalk to learn something new.
Must read books: “The Millionaire Next Door”
by Thomas J. Stanley and William D. Danko
“Think and Grow Rich”
by Napoleon Hill and Steve Harvey
“The Compound Effect” by Darren Hardy
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while saving time and money. If you’re not up for wearing the same thing every day, then make sure you plan tomorrow today.
They never stop learning
Millionaires read constantly and consistently, and would rather be educated than entertained. They read at least 30 minutes a day and read to maintain or acquire knowledge. They mainly read informative books on history, personal development, or biographies of other successful people. Set a goal to read a minimum of one educational book a month.
Photo Credit: Lark Pronty of Prime24photography
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They keep their mind and body fit by working out
Exercise is not only good for the body, but is great for the brain. Research shows that cardio helps grow neurons (brain cells) in the brain, and produces more glucose which fuels the brain. The more it grows, the smarter you become. Knock out 30 minutes of cardio a day, and read a book while you’re at it.
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They are mindful of the choices they make
Did you know on average we make over 35,000 decisions a day! You decide what time to set your alarm, if you hit snooze, should you brush your teeth or shower first, what you should wear, what you will eat, and the list goes on. Have you noticed that Steve Jobs and Mark Zuckerberg wore the same kind of outfits every day? Why? Because it was one less choice they had to make that day. Have you heard the term decision fatigue? It’s when your choices start to deteriorate after having a long session of decisions. The removal of just one decision can leave more room for mental space, and better productivity. By having a routine, your brain doesn’t have to work as hard and reduces stress,
They are aware of their spending habits
They live below their means, and don’t drive the nicest cars in the neighborhood. Have you read the book, “The Millionaire Next Door?” Years of research has gone into this book to study millionaires. What they found is the average millionaire doesn’t live in the biggest house or drive the fanciest car. In fact, often times the millionaire lives next door to you. These are the individuals who you wouldn’t recognize as millionaires unless you saw their bank accounts. They live below their means, and build their wealth in investments such as real estate, the stock market, and have multiple streams of income. Many times, it’s the broke people who make a good income, but overspend to live in a big house with many cars. They are house rich, but cash poor. Challenge yourself to save at least 15% of your income by paying yourself first. Then create a spending plan of needs and wants so you become in charge of your money, and it doesn’t control you. Subconsciously, you will think twice about every purchase.
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They become successful and pay it forward
Chances are millionaires had a good mentor along the way. They surround themselves with positive, influential people, and when they succeed they pay it forward. A great mentor, Mr. Bill Walsh, Founder and CEO of Business Coaching/ Venture Capital Firm of Powerteam International, says to create so much value in other people’s life and expect nothing in return. Living by this philosophy will set you up for success, and you’ll be surprised with what you get in return. Remember, small changes over time lead to great results. Implement these habits into your life, and you will be on a great path to success!
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Podiatry
PROVIDERS Michael Crismon, DC
Daniel Graham, DC
Dr. Stanley Miller, MD
Dr. David Ellsworth, DPM
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Advanced Spine & Rehab PC Advanced Family Healthcare PLLC 4121 E Valley Auto Drive, Suite # 110 Mesa, AZ 85206 480-892-1122 • 480-892-2243 www.advancespine.com
BECOMING A DEFAULT LANDLORD: 5 Things to Consider
Starting in March of 2007 the real estate market plummeted from a national high of roughly $329,000 in median home prices according to Census.gov to roughly $242,300 in October 2011. Terms were coined such as, “short-sell” where homeowners were forced to negotiate with banks to sell at much lower prices than what was owed and “shadow inventory” where a staggering influx of homes were foreclosed on or otherwise abandoned from homeowners who through various reasons couldn’t afford their homes and Fannie Mae and Freddie Mack took those and held a large inventory of homes that had not been put on the sale market through typical real estate agents. Consequently,
When being faced with becoming a default landlord the prospect of becoming aware of all the risks and advantages can be daunting... in 2007 – 2009 the US economy experienced one of the worst recessions in modern economic times since the great depression and many homeowners found themselves choosing between work and home. Ultimately, in 2011 investors saw investment opportunities and the real estate market began to stabilize. As of January 2018 with the latest national median home prices at roughly $318,700 in November 2017 according to Census.gov. During this time another term was coined as well, called the “default landlord” or investor. This was a market of individuals that encompassed people who either liked their home and wanted to keep it but were forced to move due to a job transfer or loss or otherwise and they couldn’t sell their home for what they owed, or they wanted to eventually move back into their home. Or they simply wanted to move, job transfer or not, with the goal to hold out until home prices stabilized or bounced back
because they had some equity that they didn’t want to risk losing. Or, basically, any combination of these typical traits. Either way, these individuals were faced with a choice and an option automatically presents itself; finding someone to rent the home for a period of time while the homeowner figured out what to do when prices came back. Though home prices have largely bounced back, and the glut of short sell homes or foreclosed homes has been diminished and the unemployment rate has been reduced from 10% in December 2009 to 4.1% in November 2017 according to the latest US Dept of Labor Statistics, we still see a job market that is highly transient as millennials enter the work force who compete for jobs that require new mobile instant access technologies which has ended up putting more and more pressure on an older aging work force. Which means that Default Landlordism has lingered.
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With an ever-changing real estate market and economic scene what does one do when finding them-self as a default landlord? Here are a few things to consider: 1. Holding Costs:
3. Laws:
4. Accounting:
Factor any expenses that will be incurred to maintain homeownership. This included fixed costs such as the mortgage. Other costs may fluctuate such as utilities or landscaping maintenance; typically, once a home is leased to a tenant this cost
One of the biggest pitfalls that a default landlord finds are legal ramifications. Often the common phrase rings true; “they don’t know, what they don’t know”. For example, in the state of Arizona where I’m from a property must be registered as
There are cases where a landlord experiences negative cash flow. However, this alone doesn’t necessarily mean one has a poor investment. For example, the holding costs are more than income or even a large home repair occurs, or any large unexpected cost arises. Depending on the tax reporting strategy a homeowner may receive an increase in tax savings. Determining the proper rent price is critical to maintaining accurate and profitable values.
5. Hiring a professional:
will go away when a tenant turns utilities on in their name. Holding costs is how much it costs on an going basis to own the property.
2. Positive Cash Flow: Determine if you can achieve a positive monthly cash flow. First, factor what the monthly rent value of your home is vs the monthly mortgage and other the holding costs such as projected vacancy periods, projected home repairs, monthly utilities, etc. Ideally the monthly income should be more than the monthly expenses.
a rental property with the county where the property is located, most cities charge a “rent” tax and homeowners must apply for a tax license and pay the tax not to the city but to the state, and if living out of state a homeowner must file with the secretary of state a “statutory agent” form an assign a statutory agent who resides within the state and who can receive legal notices. Also, most states have specific general landlord tenant statutes that define how the landlord tenant relationship should operate and time frames and procedures if a party is breaching a contract.
When being faced with becoming a default landlord the prospect of becoming aware of all the risks and advantages can be daunting especially considering a job or other personal change is creating the circumstance and one has too much on their plate to deal with all at once. As they say, “ignorance is the most expensive education”. For many, finding a qualified property management professional to handle all the details and advise on a winning investment strategy is worth its weight in gold. Most property management professionals will offer free rent price determinations and consultations to help discover the best route that meets the needs of landlords. So, don’t be afraid to do some investigating and find one that fits your needs.
By Russell Hathcock Designated Broker, East Valley Property Management, LLC
COMMUNITY FEATURE
Shades of South Mountain
Welcome to the Shades of South Mountain, a new condominium neighborhood crafted by Frank Residential, a local company which has been building homes in the Phoenix area since the early 1960’s. Four generations of the Frank family have resided in Phoenix, and their continuing commitment to enhancing the lifestyle in their home town is the reason they still are building quality, reasonably-priced neighborhoods in our community today. The Shades of South Mountain is being built on land with a special history - this parcel for many years was one of a number of Japanese flower gardens built at the foot of South Mountain along Baseline Road. Thousands of colorful flowers bloomed year-round on this site; and these blossoms represented a beauty and tranquility unmatched in the Phoenix area. This unique history provides the inspiration for Shades of South Mountain. Over the past few years, this area has flourished as an infill housing and recreation district due to its proximity to downtown Phoenix, Sky Harbor Airport, ASU, neighboring golf courses, hiking and biking trails and thousands of jobs. Neighbors living within the Shades of South Mountain will enjoy the advantages of an exceptional modern lifestyle: • •
• • • • • • • • • • •
Low maintenance for residents busy at work or at play who prefer not to spend their time and money fixing their roofs, painting their houses, mowing their lawns, etc. Lock-and-leave capability for frequent travelers or seasonal residents who spend extended time away from home and upon their return expect their residence to be in the same condition as when they left Private amenities such as entry gate, community swimming pool, dog park and green space Affordability for residents who would rather spend their hard-earned cash on travel, recreation, family and other investments Close proximity to urban locations along the much sought after Baseline Corridor - only a short drive away from Downtown Phoenix, ASU and Arizona Mills Mall - 10 minutes to anywhere Recreational opportunities within walking or hiking distance such as the renowned South Mountain Park Private garage spaces for owners with cars that represent an important asset First-floor entries for all residences Single-story units for owners with no desire for the up and down lifestyle Spacious patio and lanai spaces for those who love the Arizona desert air Huge open floor plans to accommodate a variety of lifestyles Soaring ceilings at least 9’ high and up to 12’ high in some homes Open concept kitchens for homeowners who enjoy entertaining
The dramatic mountain range towering above the Shades of South Mountain is a part of the renowned recreational park known as South Mountain Park—the largest municipal park in the United States and one of the largest urban parks in North America. South Mountain Park features some of the most popular hiking, biking and horseback trails in the entire Phoenix area. Hikers can find ancient petroglyphs carved into the rocks along the trails, along with a variety of flora and fauna. It is the elegant hues, tones and shades of color found within this remarkable nature conserve that has inspired the name of our new community, the Shades of South Mountain, as well as the names of our model homes. Rich browns, warm ambers, delicate greens and earthy greys adorn the natural scenery of South Mountain; and these are the colors that define the ambiance experienced in the Shades of South Mountain. 1 home left in Phase 1 and Phase 2 is selling out quickly! Contact us today for specials and incentives at our sales office (602) 875-0918 or Lowry Petty Hughes directly at (520) 247-7007. JOIN OUR COMMUNITY TODAY AND BE A PART OF THE SHADES FAMILY!
4 USES FOR LIFE INSURANCE YOU PROBABLY NEVER THOUGHT OF: We all know the drill about death and taxes. For the first, there’s life insurance. But it may surprise some to know that a life policy can also be a solution for the latter. For those who plan ahead, life insurance can not only reduce taxes, but can be used to salve a host of other financial headaches.
Most of us take out our first life policy when we become parents or homeowners: our first term policy is usually an emergency cord that our survivors can pull in case a breadwinner dies unexpectedly. But some of the most interesting uses of life insurance can come when the kids are out and the house is paid off. “People tend to see life insurance as a cost you have to have,” said Cullen Crabbe, CEO of CWC Insurance Group. “But it has multiple functions.” Those functions can include replacing money you have lost to taxes or donated to charity, maximizing your pension or Social Security benefits, even funding college for the kids and grandkids. With the approach of the “fiscal cliff,” these non-traditional uses for life insurance have been gaining in popularity. Some of these alternative applications can look tricky to the layperson, but they still rely on life insurance’s basic purpose: replacing a stream of income, or providing heirs with liquidity when they need it most. But instead of replacing a young parent’s salary, the policy replaces the value of an asset, like a home, a business or even another pile of cash.
FUNDING A BEQUEST Cullen Crabbe gives the example of a couple whose Gilbert house, worth $600,000 constitutes half of their wealth. Their two sons don’t care about the place, but their daughter has made vacations there a centerpiece of her family’s life. “They can’t give the home to Sally and have an equivalent amount to other kids,” said Crabbe. “So they go out and get life insurance policy for the value of the home. At death of the surviving spouse, the kids still have the house, they have the $600k in savings, and they have the life insurance payout.” The key to this strategy was using a life insurance policy to effectively turn the house into a liquid asset. “Life insurance is a form of investment that provides liquidity to an estate, period,” said Iestyn Dulais with Liberty Mutual. Once you start thinking of insurance as a cash stand-in for assets, it’s easy to see other ways to apply life policies to problems of liquidity — the lack of which is often the Achilles heel in affluent families’ planning. Most people connect liquidity with whole life, which builds up cash value that the insured can borrow against. But even term policies can provide liquidity on death. The head of a family business can insure himself to be able to distribute the worth of the business to his children who don’t join the company. Business partners can take insurance policies that will allow one partners’ heirs to, in effect, buy themselves out of their half the business.
More complex strategies include pairing a life insurance policy with an instrument like a charitable remainder trust, which allows investors to donate an asset to a charitable cause while drawing the income that the asset gives off. With some of that income, the investor buys a life insurance policy to restore to his or her heirs the amount the charity receives, preserving both the tax deduction and the wealth. Most financial planners recommend putting the life insurance policy in trust, a legal form that allows you to leave instructions as to how the payout is used.
PENSION MAXIMIZATION Life insurance strategies are not for the wealthy alone. Many who expected to leave their children an inheritance before the 2008 downturn, for instance, are using the resources themselves. If a couple who take a reverse mortgage can dedicate a portion of the monthly payment to a life policy, however, they can preserve the value of the home for their heirs and still have a roof over their heads. A well-funded whole life policy can also be used to pay college costs if you haven’t saved enough in a 529 or other college fund. Though fees and administrative costs make whole life an inefficient way to save for college, a whole-life loan does have the added benefit that federal financial aid programs don’t count life insurance money when reckoning how much you can afford to pay. Similarly, life insurance can cover a financial shortfall in retirement income. A couple recently came to Crabbe with a predicament. The husband’s pension, which made up a healthy portion of their retirement plan, would stop on his death, leaving his wife with little to live on. The answer Crabbe offered was life insurance — not inexpensive at that juncture in the couple’s lives, but better than the alternative. A smarter plan is to decide the details of your pension or Social Security benefit with a life insurance policy in mind. Knowing that your spouse will get an insurance payment on your death frees you up to maximize your benefit — but the earlier you act, the better.
COLLEGE COSTS
WEALTH REPLACEMENT
There are even some unconventional uses of life insurance that mimic its most conventional purpose: to make sure bills are paid no matter what happens to you. An older couple who want to contribute to their grandchildren’s college costs can merely take advantage of the annual tax-free gift of $13,500 to each child. But if they are worried they won’t live to complete their program, they can insure themselves for the total amount, and find peace knowing their wishes will be carried out whether they write the last check themselves or leave it to their children.
Life insurance can also be used for what planners call “wealth replacement.” In its simplest form, successful investors can pay for a policy that will cover the estate taxes on their holdings. This prevents his or her survivors from having to busy themselves selling investments while they are grieving — or when selling is disadvantageous — in order to satisfy the taxman.
Life insurance solves so many riddles of financial planning that many insurance brokers, especially the growing number credentialed as financial planners, are thinking of insurance as a way to balance investment risk, not just risk to life and limb. “When you have all your vulnerabilities covered,” said Iestyn, “you can invest in a different way.”
REAL ESTATE AS AN INVESTMENT
MARKET UPDATE
Across many fronts, from what I read in the news, to what I see and hear from friends across the Country, and what I see in my local market. Indications of key real estate factors are pointing to a bustling housing market across the Country for the rest of 2018. I believe this opens for some continued real estate investment opportunities. We most likely won’t see any crazy price hikes and gains as was seen between 2011 and 2016, but I believe a solid steady growth at roughly 5% will become the norm again pending specific local market conditions and variations. To me a buy and hold strategy will be best suited for this atmosphere. Starting in January 2016 the US median home price was $299,000 and at the beginning of 2018 the US median home price was $329,000 according to the US Bureau of Census representing a 9% gain with the raw numbers without a seasonal price adjustment or inflation adjustment. Also, at the beginning of January 2016 there were 1.82 million US homes on the market for sale, peaked at 2.12 million in April 2016, and decreased to 1.52 million homes on the market by January 2018. Another key factor to make note of when analyzing the state of the market and investment opportunities is home interest rates which were 3.87% in the beginning
of 2016 and 4.03% at the start of 2018. We also need to look at job growth to paint a clear economic picture. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics in January 2016 the unemployment rate was 4.9% and 4.1% in 2018. The unemployment rate hasn’t been this low since 2001. In 2016 the US median household income was $56,039 and increased to $59,055 in January 2018. Basically, home prices are up and interest rates are still relatively low, more people are working and making good wages, but the house inventory is low which makes it hard to buy. This also means that interests rates have slowly risen. Another option for these buyers would be to build a new home; however, Robert Dietz, Chief Economist for the National Association of Home Builders says that new home builds are more expensive and are slow to build according to a Redfin.com article “Despite Record-High Costs, New Home Construction Showed Modest Growth in the Fourth Quarter” by Greg McCarriston on February 28, 2018. It also states that new home builders are being faced with labor shortages and increased wages, lumber prices up over 45%, land shortages as
REAL ESTATE AS AN INVESTMENT
MARKET UPDATE
the cost of land is up and availability is low, regulatory costs have increased by 29%, and limited credit since the recession. “We are growing, but not fast enough to keep up with demand,” said Robert Dietz As prices continue to go up along with interest rates and as people can’t find a home to buy they will most likely be forced to rent. So, what does that mean for real estate investment into single-family homes? According to Zillow the US average rent price was $1385 in 2016 and $1446 in 2018 after a run up from $1250 in 2011. If homeowners and first-time home buyers are having a hard time trying to find a home to buy then they will be forced to rent and at the same time the numbers show that they should be able to afford the rising rent prices. I recently read in USA Today an article called “10 States Predicted to Have Strong Housing Markets in 2018” by Josh Smith dated February 5, 2018. The author shares some of my own positive feelings about the 2018 housing market and I like his list as I find many of the southwestern states on it and is good news for many of our readers and sponsors.
1. Nevada – Median home price $285,045. Case-Shiller Index 2018 prediction 5.8% 2. Texas – Median home price $339,950. 2018 Growth prediction 6% 3. Florida – Median home price $275,050. 2018 Growth prediction 5% 4. California – specifically Stockton CA – Median home price $385,050. 2018 growth prediction 4.6% 5. Utah – specifically Salt Lake City – Median home price $360,00. 2018 growth prediction 3.2% 6. North Carolina – Median home price $325,000. 2018 growth prediction 6% 7. Colorado – 2018 growth prediction 3.1% 8. Tennessee – Median home price $358,500. 9. Oklahoma – Median home price $116,800. 10.Georgia – Median home price $218,350 Although I share his optimism I can’t help but take notice that since 2016 real estate growth as been slowing so I mark 2018 as a pivotal year. I’m not sure that will continue at a 5% increase unless the job market can keep pace. I know that I’ll keep my eye on the major cities of these states as possibilities to buy and hold property for the long term. Author - Russell Hathcock
THE HEAD SAYS YES. THE HEART SAYS DEFINITELY, YES.
MARKET STREET AT DC RANCH
EXPERIENCE THE 2015 GHIBLI AT SCOTTSDALE MASERATI. A unique expression of Italian design, Maserati Ghibli touches all of the senses, all at once. Its hand-stitched leather interior with an array of exclusive options redefines luxury in a sport sedan. Its powerful twin-turbocharged V6 engine with up to 404 HP delivers the unforgettable sound and thrilling performance that only comes from owning a Maserati. Starting from $69,800*
SCOTTSDALE MASERATI
18118 North Scottsdale Rd., Phoenix AZ 85054 / 866.602.4849 / www.ScottsdaleMaserati.com *Maserati Ghibli MY2015 base MSRP $69,800; Ghibli S Q4 MY2015 base MSRP $77,900. Not including dealer prep and transportation. Actual selling price may vary. Taxes, title, license and registration fees not included. ©2015 Maserati North America, Inc. All rights reserved. Maserati and the Trident logo are registered trademarks of Maserati SpA. Maserati urges you to obey all posted speed limits.
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